Fourth of July festivities are great fun for us, but for pets, all the excitement, noise, and unfamiliar activity can be genuinely stressful. Here’s how to help your pet have a safe, calm Independence Day.
Prepare for fireworks ahead of time. If you know your neighborhood will have fireworks, bring your pet indoors well before the noise starts. Close windows and curtains to help muffle sound and light, and consider playing calming music or turning on a television to help mask the noise from outside.
Create a safe, quiet space. Set up a comfortable area indoors, away from windows, where your pet can retreat if they become anxious. A crate, closet, or interior room with familiar bedding and toys can help your pet feel more secure during loud celebrations.
Update identification before the holiday. Because more pets go missing on the Fourth of July than any other day of the year, double-check that your pet’s collar fits properly and that their ID tags are current. If your pet isn’t already microchipped, consider scheduling this ahead of the holiday for extra peace of mind.
Stay close during celebrations. If you’re attending an outdoor gathering with your pet, keep them leashed and within sight at all times, since a startled pet can slip away in seconds. If your pet tends to get anxious around fireworks or crowds, it may be kinder to leave them safely at home instead.
Talk to us about anxiety options. If your pet has a history of severe firework anxiety, reach out to our team ahead of the holiday. We can discuss calming strategies or other options that may help make the day more comfortable for your pet.
Know what to do if your pet goes missing. If your pet does get loose during the celebrations, check with neighbors, local shelters, and animal control right away, and make sure your microchip information and ID tags are current so you can be reunited quickly if your pet is found.
If your pet becomes injured or seems to be having a stress-related medical issue during the holiday, call San Juan Veterinary Hospital at (505) 326-2205. Have a great, safe July 4th!