With Canada Day celebrations approaching, the Humane Society of Oakville, Milton & Halton (HSOMH) is reminding pet parents that fireworks can be stressful and frightening for animals. A few simple precautions can help keep pets safe and prevent them from becoming lost.
The sudden sounds and bright flashes of fireworks can cause fear and anxiety in many animals. Some pets may hide, panic, try to escape, or become injured while attempting to get away.
HSOMH recommends the following tips to help pets stay calm and secure during fireworks:
- Keep pets safely indoors. Close windows and doors during fireworks displays to help reduce noise and prevent pets from escaping. If your dog needs to go outside, keep them
leashed at all times. - Make sure identification is up to date. Pets should wear a properly fitted collar and ID tags. Microchipping is also strongly encouraged and can help increase the chances of being reunited if a pet goes missing.
- Plan walks before dark. Take dogs out earlier in the evening, before fireworks begin, to avoid being outside when unexpected noises may cause fear.
- Create a safe space. Set up a quiet, comfortable area where your pet can retreat, such as a crate, covered bed, box, or cozy corner.
- Reduce sights and sounds. Close curtains and blinds to block flashing lights, and try turning on the TV, playing music, or using white noise to help mask the sounds.
- Use familiar comforts. Items with your pet’s scent, such as their bedding or favourite blanket, can help them feel more secure.
- Leave pets at home. Even if your dog does not appear nervous, they are much more sensitive to the sounds and smells of fireworks than people are. The safest place for them is in the comfort of home.
- Talk to your veterinarian if needed. If your pet has a history of anxiety around fireworks, your veterinarian can help you explore options to keep them comfortable.
- Keep fireworks out of reach. Many pets are curious and may try to investigate fireworks or leftover materials. Keep fireworks securely stored and pets away from the area while fireworks are being used.
- Clean up thoroughly afterward. Fireworks can leave behind chemicals, debris, and materials that may be harmful if ingested. Make sure the area is fully cleaned before allowing pets outside.
If your pet does become lost, act quickly. Contact your local humane society and/or animal services right away to report your missing pet and check whether they have been found.
Search your home and property, ask neighbours to keep an eye out, and share your pet’s description and photo. Leaving familiar scents, such as your pet’s bedding, outside your home may also help guide them back.
