Animal control officials urge pet owners to protect their pets from fireworks-related anxiety and escape during Independence Day celebrations.
HOUSTON — Pet owners should take immediate steps to protect their animals from getting lost during Independence Day festivities, as animal control officials report a significant spike in missing pets during the holiday weekend.
According to veterinary experts, animal control officials nationwide see a 30% to 60% increase in lost pets each year between July 4 and July 6, with fireworks being a key factor for pets running away. The loud, sudden noises from fireworks cause many pets, especially dogs, to bolt in fear.
“The 4th of July is one of the busiest times for missing pet reports,” said Precinct 4 Constable Mark Herman in an emailed news release. “A microchip or tracking device like an AirTag can make all the difference in bringing your pet home quickly and safely.”
Dr. Lily Richards, a veterinary surgeon who partnered with TrustedHousesitters to provide safety guidance, emphasizes that pets can develop negative associations with loud noises at any time. Warning signs of fireworks anxiety include hiding, excessive licking, or pacing behavior.
Pet owners can implement several strategies to keep their animals safe and calm during the celebrations. Richards recommends creating a quiet, comfortable space inside the home with toys, a comfy bed, and favorite treats. Closing curtains helps limit startling flashes, while familiar background noise from televisions or radios can mask the unfamiliar sounds of fireworks.
For preparation, Richards suggests an unusual desensitization technique using common household items.
“If your pet is anxious or noise-phobic and historically gets stressed at fireworks, consider starting desensitization training as soon as possible,” she said. Pet owners can start by snapping spaghetti to simulate sudden pops, then gradually build up to louder noises like popping bubble wrap, rewarding pets with treats and praise after each sound.
Additional safety measures include adjusting daily routines by walking dogs and feeding them earlier in the evening, bringing them inside before fireworks begin. For anxious pets, anti-anxiety wraps or tightly fitting T-shirts can provide comfort similar to swaddling a baby, though Richards advises testing these solutions before the holiday.
Pet identification remains crucial for quick reunification if animals do escape. Experts recommend ensuring pets are microchipped with updated contact information, using GPS tags or Apple AirTags for additional tracking, and verifying that collar ID tags display current phone numbers.
Natural remedies can also help ease anxiety when started several days before the stressful event. Products containing L-tryptophan, a precursor to the mood-stabilizing hormone serotonin, along with calming pheromone plug-ins designed for dogs and cats, can provide additional comfort during celebrations.
For pet owners unable to keep their animals indoors during fireworks, maintaining a short leash and ensuring identification tags and microchips contain current information becomes essential in case pets panic and attempt to flee.
“Let this 4th of July be one of celebration, not searching,” Herman advised. “Protect your pets now so they can stay safe at home where they belong.”