Vet-backed tips to calm your dog during Fourth of July fireworks

It should be no surprise to most dog lovers that many pups don't much care for fireworks. Cats aren't the biggest fans either. While most people love the loud, celebratory noise of fireworks, along with the bright colors across a summer night sky, for pets it can be an upsetting, even traumatic, event.

"The bright lights and loud booms may be exciting to some people, but they can be very frightening for our pets due to our pets' heightened senses and lack of ability to predict what's coming next. They have no idea it's a holiday, after all," explains Dr. Annie Valuska, a pet behaviorist and certified applied animal behaviorist for Purina.

It's not just the noise and visuals either, says Valuska.

"Some pets may even be picking up on the unique odor that's created by a fireworks display, which they may find aversive," she says.

Remember: our furry friends don't know what's happening, and that uncertainty puts them on high alert.

"Dogs do not understand what fireworks are, so from their perspective, the experience can feel like a sudden and overwhelming assault on their senses," says Dr. Andrea Tu, chief of veterinary behavior medicine at Heart of Chelsea Veterinary Group.

Not every dog has a panic response to fireworks, according to Valuska.

"A fear of loud noises is very common among dogs, with some studies estimating that up to 50% of dogs are affected. That said, it's likely that some owners who believe their dog is unbothered by fireworks may be missing subtle behaviors that indicate their dog is experiencing stress or anxiety during a fireworks display," explains Valuska.

Valuska also noted that cats can be afraid of fireworks, too.

So, with the knowledge that the upcoming summer holidays might be upsetting for your pets, what are some next steps for concerned pet owners? The most important thing, according to all the experts we spoke with, is being prepared in advance.

Medication is one option, says Dr. Seth Colman, medical director VEG ER for Pets, pointing out that some animals will benefit from preemptive medications before the fireworks start.

"Situational anti-anxiety medications such as trazodone, gabapentin, or alprazolam (Xanax) can be especially helpful when administered a few hours before the event," explained Colman. "There are also medications specifically intended for noise aversion, such as Sileo, which is currently the only FDA-approved medication for canine noise aversion."

Colman added it's important to take a trial run before the day of a fireworks event.

"Medication trials should be performed before the holiday so the veterinarian and family understand the appropriate dose, how long the medication takes to work, and how long the effects last," Colman says. "The Fourth of July should not be the first time a pet receives a new anxiety medication or therapy."

Timing of the dose also matters, says Tu.

"Depending on the medication and your pet's individual metabolism, it may take anywhere from 30 to 60 minutes to two to three hours to become effective. If medication is given too late - or if fireworks begin before it takes effect - it may not provide adequate relief, even if it has worked well in the past," she says.

If your pet doesn't get that upset, or you'd prefer not to use prescription medication, Valuska says synthetic pheromone sprays, such as Adaptil and Feliway, can have a calming effect on some dogs and cats. Distraction can also help, she says.

"You can also prepare feeding enrichment ahead of time to distract them -- such as a fully loaded food puzzle or a frozen stuffed Kong," Valuska says. "Wearing your pets out with some exercise like a long walk or strenuous play session well before the fireworks start can go a long way towards helping them stay calm."

When the fireworks actually start, be ready to let your pet hide, or provide some comfort. Many pets will choose a location in your home that feels safe.

"Pay attention to where your pet prefers to go and make sure they can easily access their selected area when fireworks start," says Tu. "If your pet seeks comfort from you, provide it! Offering reassurance to a scared pet is no different from comforting a frightened child-it is humane, supportive, kind and helpful."

More pets in the United States go missing on the Fourth of July than any other day of the year, due to panic responses to fireworks. This can include not coming when called, digging under or going over a fence, or simply bolting.

"The best way to prevent your pet from going missing is to keep them safely inside," Valuska says. "If you must go outdoors, ensure the pet is securely leashed and that they have an ID tag and microchip with your up-to-date contact information."

And, before the fireworks start, double check any leashes, collars or harnesses for wear and tear and a proper fit.

Now that you're well equipped with this information, you can enjoy the fireworks, and your dogs and cats shouldn't be too affected if you make a few preparations in advance. Having medication or distracting techniques at the ready should assure a safe and happy holiday for the whole household.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Vet-backed tips to calm your dog during Fourth of July fireworks

Reporting by Tanya Edwards, USA TODAY / USA TODAY

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Copyright Reuters or USA Today Network via Reuters Connect

This story was originally published June 26, 2026 at 4:03 PM.