How to Keep Pets Calm During Fourth of July Fireworks

Calm Dog and Cat Lounging

With the upcoming Fourth of July holiday, pets are tortured by the 

"booms" of fireworks. They can be terrifying for pets, especially dogs 

and cats, because of their sensitive hearing and inability to understand 

what's happening. 

🐾 Non-Medication Methods (can be used alone or in conjunction with medication):

1. Create a Safe Space

• 
  Set up a quiet, interior room (basement, closet, or bathroom) with blankets, toys, and familiar smells.

• Close windows, blinds, and curtains to dampen sound and light flashes.

2. White Noise or Calming Music

• Turn on a fan, white noise machine, or calming music (like “Through a Dog’s Ear”).

• Some streaming platforms have pet-specific playlists.

3. Pressure Wraps (e.g., ThunderShirt)

• These snug-fitting vests help reduce anxiety by applying gentle, constant pressure, similar to swaddling a baby.

4. Distraction with Toys or Treats

• Puzzle toys or frozen peanut butter Kongs can help redirect focus.

5. Pheromone Sprays and Diffusers

• Products like Adaptil (for dogs) or Feliway (for cats) release synthetic calming pheromones.

• Available in plug-ins, sprays, or collars.

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💊 Medication Options (Consult Your Vet First!)

1. Trazodone (Dogs)

• An anti-anxiety medication is commonly prescribed for situational anxiety.

• Works within 1–2 hours; lasts 6–12 hours.

2. Sileo (Dexmedetomidine Gel)

• FDA-approved for noise aversion in dogs.

• Given as a gel applied between the cheek and gum.

3. Gabapentin (Dogs & Cats)

• Used for anxiety and pain, often prescribed for cats who don’t respond to other meds.

4. Alprazolam (Xanax, Dogs)

• A fast-acting benzodiazepine for acute anxiety.

• Short-term use only, under close vet guidance.

5. CBD (Dogs & Cats)

• Mixed results, but many pet owners report success using vet-formulated CBD oils or chews.

• Look for third-party tested products specifically for pets.

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📝 Important Tips

• Do a trial run of any meds or CBD before the 4th, in case of side effects.

• Never give human anxiety meds (like Benadryl or Xanax) without a vet’s OK.

• Be sure your pet is microchipped and wearing ID tags. Fireworks are a leading cause of runaway pets.

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