Fireworks may be fun for people, but for animals, they can be loud, scary, and disorienting. Dogs often react by pacing, barking, hiding, or trying to escape. Cats may freeze, bolt, or disappear into tight hiding spots. The loud booms and unpredictable flashes can trigger intense panic, even in pets that are usually calm.

Every year, shelters see a spike in stray intakes after fireworks events. Many of those pets arrive without ID or microchip information, making it harder to reunite them with their families. As a shelter or rescue, you can help reduce those numbers by preparing your fosters and adopters in advance with simple, actionable tips.

1. Create a Safe, Quiet Space

Set up a calm, enclosed spot where pets can retreat. Choose a space away from windows,  like a bathroom, closet, or covered crate. Padding the space with blankets can help dampen sound and create a cozy hideaway. Add a bed and familiar toys. Let animals come and go as they wish. Don’t force them to stay confined. Fosters with multiple pets should plan separate spaces if needed. Anxious animals can trigger each other.

2. Block Out the Noise

Play white noise, soft music, or leave the TV on to help mask the outdoor sounds. Pet-specific apps like Relax My Dog or Pet Acoustics+ can create a calming audio environment designed to soothe anxiety.

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3. Use a Calming Wrap

Small blankets or snug-fitting shirts can ease stress by applying gentle pressure. If you don’t have one, a snug t-shirt or towel can work. Be sure to try it out ahead of time, because introducing new gear during fireworks can add stress instead of helping.

4. Keep Your Cool

Animals take cues from their humans. Stay calm, speak in a normal tone, and avoid reacting to the noise. Gentle distractions like food puzzles, chew toys, or training games can help shift their focus and reduce anxiety.

5. Consider Calming Aids

Pheromone diffusers, calming chews, or vet-approved CBD products may help sensitive pets. In severe cases, your veterinarian might recommend medication. Always use pet-safe products—never give human medication to animals.

6. Secure Your Space

Double-check doors, windows, gates, and fences before dark. Panicked pets can squeeze through the smallest gaps. If possible, make sure every animal has a secure collar with an ID tag and that microchip records are current. For shelters with short-term fosters or weekend placements, double-check microchip registration before pickup—and encourage fosters to keep pets leashed, even in fenced areas.

Shelter Tip: Confirm chip records at intake and before any holiday placement. Many firework-related intake cases involve pets with no traceable ID.

Fireworks can turn into emergencies fast. The pet owners who aware of this problem, the fewer scared animals there will be.  Sharing this information can help keep pets safe and out of the shelter.