Johnson: Fireworks terrifying for many pets

Growing from sections of bamboo that popped when thrown in a fire to orchestrated blooms of color that erupt high in the night sky, fireworks have evolved quite a bit over the centuries to become an epitome of celebratory expression that are guaranteed to draw crowds.

Given how fantastic fireworks displays have become, these days even the evil spirits that ancient Chinese inventors wanted to drive away with their bamboo firecrackers would probably stick around to “ooh” and “ah” with everyone else rather than running away in fear.

In search of ponies

As beautiful and entertaining as they are, fireworks do, however, scare the bejeebers out of some of those nearest and dearest to humans, and Independence Day — the most popular day of the year for fireworks — is a day of terror for many pets.

Unlike thunderstorms, which give clues of their pending arrival via changes to pressure, humidity, wind and lighting, the unexpected cracking, popping and thunderous bang of fireworks can turn even the biggest and toughest of critters into a lap-invading, trembling mess.

As communities celebrate with fireworks both large and small in the days surrounding July Fourth, pet owners often find themselves helplessly trying to console the inconsolable and worrying about making sure their four-legged companions stay safe and secure until the panic days subside.

For the owners of pets that become irrationally afraid at the first snap of a popper on a neighborhood sidewalk, one of the biggest concerns is that animals overwhelmed with panic might run and become lost, or worse, injure themselves trying to get away from the threat.

According the ASPCA, in 2015, more stray dogs were taken in by animal agencies in the month of July, keeping with trends from prior years.

Interestingly, the same agencies report July and December were also the two highest months for stray dogs being reclaimed by their owners, indicating a higher number of lost and runaway pets. Though not exclusively tied to fireworks, ASPCA experts point out weather events and fireworks in July are likely contributors to the higher numbers.

Even if they wanted to, worried pet owners can’t prevent scary storms or firework displays, but there are steps they can take to help pets remain comfortable on those nights when it sounds like the world is coming to an end.

• When attending events where scary noises are likely – especially fireworks displays – leave pets at home. Even for pets that aren’t leaving the house, have them microchipped and/or make sure they wear collars with current identification tags just in case.

• Plan ahead for noisy nights. Bring pets indoors, keep them in secure areas where noise is muffled, can’t be heard at all or use a radio or television to drown out sounds and distract them with toys or play. Special sweaters and wraps designed to swaddle pets may also comfort some critters.

• Some experts say comforting a frightened pet reinforces their fears, others believe if a pet seeks comfort; there is no harm in giving it. Whichever route one chooses, experts agree that forcing a pet to “face their fears” or doing nothing at all will only make things worse.

• If a pet is so afraid they might go through a window, get stuck in a small hiding place, run away, or bite someone, medication may be necessary. Several medications exist for as-needed and long-term treatment of noise aversion. Talk to a veterinarian about the most appropriate option.

It can be a stressful season for pets and their people, but — with a little creativity and care — it doesn’t have to be a nightmare.

Sharna Johnson is a writer who is always searching for ponies. You can reach her at:

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