For many of us, the “oohs,” and “aahs,” of fireworks lighting up the sky are the quintessential ending to the perfect Fourth of July. But for our dogs and cats, these festive pyrotechnics bring hours, even days of peril. From thunderous booms to toxic pollution, fireworks are not only scary to pets; they can be downright dangerous.

Learn how fireworks pose serious, little-known hazards to dogs and cats and how you can protect your pets this Fourth of July.

1.Lasting panic for pets with sound anxiety.

The obvious downside to fireworks on the Fourth of July are those earth-shattering bangs and booms. Depending on where you live, your pets may hear consumer fireworks set off in your neighborhood, or there may be professional grade fireworks set off at a nearby park or fairgrounds, or there may even be both. Fireworks set off both closeby and miles away can cause sound anxiety in pets.

Dogs and cats have a sense of hearing that’s many times more acute than ours, and they can also hear sounds at much higher frequencies. So, they’re exposed not only to those huge booms, but the ear-splitting whines, crackles, and hisses that fill the sky.

Sound anxiety triggered by fireworks can be mild to severe. It tends to worsen in pets as they age. Pets may show signs like drooling, nausea, destructive chewing, urinating, defecating, inability to eat or sleep, and in severe cases, seizures and panic-induced heart attack.

Many fall into a state of panic that lasts throughout the night, and up to 25% of those with sound anxiety experience symptoms that last days, even weeks following a night of fireworks according to a 2019 Memorial University of Newfoundland study.

2.Smoke and airborne contaminants.

When they’re set off, fireworks release gaseous air pollutants, particulate matter, and metal salts, all of which can cause respiratory distress in sensitive pets. For dogs and cats with a history of asthma, chronic bronchitis, other respiratory issues, and cardiovascular problems, close proximity to neighborhood or municipal fireworks can cause difficulty breathing.

In some regions, air pollution from fireworks can linger for up to 48 hours, potentially causing short- and long-term respiratory issues in both people and animals.

3.An uptick in lost pets.

It’s incredibly common for dogs and cats to escape their homes and run for cover when they hear fireworks. In fact, July 5th is one of the busiest days of the year for animal shelters, with animal control officials reporting a 30% increase in lost pets between July 4-6.

Pets are unable to determine where fireworks are coming from, and may become destructive when in a panic, digging or clawing their way through doors, windows, and gates. The flashes of light, smoky odors, and thunderous booms can throw off their navigation, leading them to run off far from home. And while some pets will eventually be recovered by neighbors or local animal control, many others are hit by cars or otherwise never make it home after the holiday.

4.Toxicity from consuming unused or used fireworks.

Do you have a dog, or, less likely, a cat that will eat anything? Unused fireworks, as well as spent firework residue, can be consumed by curious pets. Fireworks, sparklers, and other combustible products contain corrosive agents that can cause burns to the mouth and esophagus, as well as additives that can cause diarrhea, vomiting, damage to red blood cells, high blood potassium, and in some reported cases, fatal toxicity.

5.Accidental or intentional burns.

While most people know to step back when fireworks are being ignited, pets don’t know any better. Curious dogs and cats may approach or chase non-aerial fireworks or other explosives, potentially leading to serious burns to the face. Fireworks can cause severe, third-degree burns and life-threatening injuries to pets. Those that are allowed to roam, especially “outdoor cats,” are vulnerable to intentional harm from individuals with malicious intent who have access to fireworks.

Protect Pets From Fireworks On July 4th

Needless to say, dogs and cats should never be brought to fireworks displays. They should also be kept safely indoors, windows closed, when neighbors are likely to use consumer fireworks, sparklers, pop-its, and other combustible products. Keep in mind that people commonly begin to ignite fireworks in the days leading up to the holiday, as well as a few days afterwards.

Avoid leaving pets home alone when fireworks are likely to be set off in your neighborhood, especially if you’re unsure how they may react. If you must take your pet outside, do so before sundown, then cozy up in a safe, quiet space indoors. Rooms with plenty of sound-absorbing materials like curtains, carpets, and blankets are best for pets hiding away from the fireworks.

Calming aids can help take the edge off your pet’s anxiety. You can give calming treats about 30 minutes before the sunsets, then every few hours or as indicated by the package directions. Other anxiety aids like a Thundershirt and pheromone-based aromatherapy pet products, too, can be used in combination with calming treats.

If needed, your veterinarian can prescribe anxiety medication. See your vet or make an online vet appointment as soon as possible, as anxiety-related appointments before the holiday are in high demand.

VISION

Every pet deserves to live a long, happy, healthy life.