Fireworks, Loud Noises, Smoke, and Your Pets 

Written By K Vizzini

Lawn equipment, blowers, chainsaws – all can be somewhat normal to us. However, is it to pets? Many animals do not like the vibrations from these loud noise makers along with thunderstorms, and yes, those fireworks. All of these can make a home feel unsafe as the animals can feel how vibrations make the house feel like it is moving.

Some find comfort in us nearby while others do not. Many will head to a dark, cozy spot that allows them to feel safer. Others will go as far as to get into a bathtub to ride out the storm much like we do to take cover during a tornado or severe thunderstorm or dust storm to find the most central area in the house which is often the bathroom.

Some pets run away from the house because it doesn’t feel, sound, or smell safe depending on how close it is to the fireworks being set off or those in neighbors’ backyards that bring all those closer to their home. This can make them run in a panic much like a person experiencing a panic attack with no knowledge to where they’re going, the environment no longer feeling like home and that of a normal status.

Pets often alert us when something is off in a home such as a fire or smoke, when we are in danger, or something is occurring beneath the surface of our bodies – and yet when fireworks are about, they mimic these same dangers, and we are asking that they go against their instincts in regard to the source. And yes, some are born with this not affecting them while others have been this way from the start and may have heightened senses for smell, sound, or how it feels in his or her body. If you have a pet that these noises didn’t have an effect and recently that has changed, have them checked out by a veterinarian as there may be an underlining health ailment.

If you know your pets have a tendency towards the anxiousness with these loud noises here are a few suggestions:

·        Exercise them earlier in the day

·        Get them out for potty breaks before any of this begins.

·        Make sure the space is cooler.

·        Feed them earlier as well as many will not eat when anxious or scared.

·        Keep your pets inside and in an interior room that is a cozy den-like space.

·        Put on white noise, a fan, or some calming music that helps with fireworks.

·        Close drapes or shutters to eliminate the flashes from fireworks as well as muffle the noise.

·        If you or someone can be home with them that is best.

·        You can try distracting them with favorite games, a favorite treat, or a frozen toy Kong filled with yummy morsels.

·        Make sure your pets have id and collars on their bodies that day/night.

Some calming music options include the following selections.

YouTube music selections:


Alexa music options:

  • Calming Music for Dogs/ or Cats

  • Puppy Jams – for Stressed

Just remember just as not all people hear, feel, see, or have the same sense of smell neither do the animal beings you share your homes with, so finding what works for your animal family members is key to maneuvering through the next storm.

K Vizzini
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