Keep Fido Safe During Fireworks

Cat Malkin is both a longtime Westport resident and a lifelong animal lover.

For over 30 years she has given them a “voice,” as an animal communicator. She is also an animal Reiki master teacher and practitioner, pet meditation master teacher, and a pet loss and grief counselor.

As America gets set to celebrate Independence Day — with plenty of fireworks, of course — she worries about pyrotechnics’ effects on animals. Cat writes:

Many pets struggle over the 4th of July holiday. And more pets go missing now than at any other time of year.

My own Yogi Bear is not a fan of fireworks. It’s heartbreaking to watch him suffer over the long holiday.

Yogi Bear is not a fireworks fan. (Photo/Cat Malkin)

America’s 250th birthday fireworks have already started. They will get louder and more frequent throughout the weekend.

That’s bad news for pets who are sensitive to sound, and for the people who love them.

Animals have much sharper hearing than humans. Sudden loud noises like fireworks can trigger their fight-or-flight response, causing them to run for their lives and hide from the scary noises.

This can happen even if your animal hasn’t reacted to fireworks before. Their fear can come on suddenly.

It’s like someone turned the volume way up on a scary movie they don’t understand.

The worst part is that they might not hear your voice or respond to your usual calming techniques.

That’s why some pets end up chewing through crates, slipping out doors, jumping fences, or even breaking windows in their desperate attempt to escape the noise.

Here are some tips to create a safe, secure environment for your animal family during the 4th of July holiday:

 Microchip and ID Checkup:

• Make sure your pet’s tag and microchip are current.
• Take a picture with your pet for easier identification at animal shelters should they go missing.
• For an extra layer of security, consider attaching an AirTag or other GPS tracking device on their collar for real-time tracking.
• Make sure your animal is wearing their ID.

 Communication is Key: Let your animal family know what is in store for them, and reassure them that you will keep them safe. Talking with your pet during an animal communication session can reduce their fear and anxieties, and help you create a calming strategy together.

 Create a Safe Haven: Keep your pet indoors in a quiet, secure room, with windows closed and shades drawn during fireworks displays. To reduce anxiety further, use a thundershirt, play calming music, or give your pet a rescue remedy for added comfort.

 Project Calm: Your pet picks up on your emotions, so do your best to stay calm and reassuring. Meditating or sharing Reiki can help both of you stay grounded and present as fireworks explode.

 Vet Talk Now: If your pet has noise phobias or you have any concerns, discuss your options with your vet today.

Don’t wait until the fireworks frenzy begins to reduce your pet’s stress and ensure everyone has a safe and, hopefully, enjoyable 4th of July.

Click this American Kennel Club website for more information.

(To learn more about Cat Malkin’s work with animals, click on her website, Animal Muse.)

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