Keeping Pets Calm During Fireworks: 4th of July Tips for Dogs and Cats

While we humans might enjoy the sparkle and boom of fireworks, our pets often feel very differently. To them, fireworks are confusing, loud, and frankly terrifying. At Murci's Mission, we’ve seen firsthand how holidays like the Fourth of July can be overwhelming for cats and dogs alike, especially for those recently adopted or still adjusting to a new home.

So let’s talk about how to make the holiday a little less stressful and a lot more comforting for your four-legged family members.

Why Fireworks Are So Stressful for Pets

Pets experience the world through heightened senses, especially hearing. Fireworks can feel like an attack from nowhere: loud, erratic, and impossible to predict. For animals with trauma histories, anxiety disorders, or limited socialization, these sudden bursts can send them into full panic mode.

Signs of stress include:

• Pacing, panting, or drooling
• Hiding or trying to escape
• Whining, howling, or barking
• Destructive behavior or house soiling

The good news? There are things you can do now to make this year easier on your furry companions.

Prep Work: What You Can Do in Advance

1. Create a Safe Haven
Set up a cozy, quiet space where your pet can retreat when they feel overwhelmed. This could be a crate covered with a blanket, a bathroom, or a quiet bedroom with a fan or white noise machine. Add their favorite blanket or toy for comfort.

2. Do a Dry Run
If your area is already popping fireworks, start desensitization early. Play firework sounds on YouTube at a low volume while rewarding your pet with treats or gentle play. Keep sessions short and positive.

3. Talk to Your Vet
For pets with known anxiety, a vet may recommend calming supplements, anti-anxiety meds, or natural remedies like pheromone diffusers. Don’t wait until July 3rd to make the call—plan ahead.

4. Ensure Tags and Microchips Are Up to Date
Every year, shelters fill up with pets who bolt out of fear. Make sure your pet’s ID tags are legible and microchip information is current, just in case.

Day-Of Tips for a Peaceful 4th

1. Exercise Early
Get in a good walk or play session earlier in the day to help burn off excess energy. A tired pet is often a calmer one.

2. Keep Them Indoors
Even if your dog is usually fine off-leash, don’t take the risk. Bring all pets indoors before the fireworks begin and close windows and curtains to muffle the sound and block out flashes of light.

3. Turn On the TV or Music
Ambient noise can help drown out the booms. Try soft music, a fan, or even a movie to help mask the fireworks.

4. Avoid Over-Soothing
It’s tempting to coddle a nervous pet, but excessive attention can accidentally reinforce fearful behavior. Instead, speak calmly, act normal, and reward relaxed behavior.

5. Try Calming Tools
Options include:
• Calming treats
• Thundershirts or anxiety wraps
• Lick mats or chew toys
• Pheromone diffusers (like Feliway or Adaptil)

Got a Pet Who’s Still Adjusting?

Newly adopted animals may be more sensitive to fireworks. Give them extra grace. Let them hide if needed, don’t force interactions, and keep routines consistent to build trust and safety.

Adoptable Spotlight: Meet Rocket Rita

Rocket Rita is a spunky little Chihuahua mix with a heart as bold as her name. Though small in size, she’s full of personality and charm. Rita is crate trained, house trained, and knows basic commands—and while she’s the life of the party at home, she’s not a fan of chaos or other high-energy animals.

She’s best suited to a home where she can be the center of attention, or with a very socially savvy dog who respects her boundaries. Rita loves cuddling, being tucked in, and going for little adventures. She’s had successful surgery to remove a mammary tumor and is currently cancer-free.

If she’s no longer available when you read this, don’t worry—we’d love to play matchmaker and help you find the right furbaby for your home.

Interested? Start the adoption process today!

Final Thoughts

The Fourth of July doesn’t have to be a traumatic experience for your pets. With some prep, a little creativity, and a whole lot of compassion, you can make it a safe and even relaxing day for your entire household.

Your pet trusts you to keep them safe. And with a few simple steps, you can do just that.

Stay safe, stay calm, and give those pets some extra treats for being such good sports.

Coming Up Next: Keeping Indoor Cats Happy: Enrichment Tips for a Stimulated Feline