Pets and Fireworks

7/2/2022 (Permalink)

Got a fire damage? Call SERVPRO® of Greater Waco 254-224-5999

According to the American Psychological Association, dogs and cats have the intelligence equivalent of a 2-2.5-year-old child.  If your toddler gets startled from fireworks, then you understand why your pet may not handle them so well.  Here are a few tips to make your fourth of July a little easier to manage with your pets.

1. Make sure your pet has a collar and ID- You can go an extra step and get them microchipped in case they get startled and run off or get lost.
2. Keep your pets indoors- Make sure they have a safe space like a closet or kennel with the door left open with a comfy bed to relax and plenty of toys to distract them.
3. Take pets for a walk or bathroom breaks before starting fireworks to prevent in house accidents.
4. Turn on the TV, music and close curtains to distract them.
5. Try a calming vest or wrap. It fits like a weighted vest and feels like a hug to a pet in distress.
6. Have an energetic play session before fireworks to help a pet relax.
7. Make sure to clean up any firework supplies before exposing your pets to outside to prevent illness.
8. Consider behavioral therapy before fireworks to get them acclimated to the loud sounds. Your veterinarian can recommend sound therapy techniques or products to use to get them adjusted to the noises.
9. If your pet seems anxious, isn’t sleeping, eating or is having trouble going to the bathroom following fireworks, consult with your veterinarian.
10. Finally, ignore the fireworks sound yourself. Pets will feed off of your reaction and energy.  Instead, play with their favorite toy or watch a movie together.  Whatever you do, don’t try and force them out of a hiding spot if they are in a safe location.

Got a fire damage? Call SERVPRO® of Greater Waco 254-224-5999