Fireworks may be the star of Independence Day — but the dazzling explosions are a nightmare for hearing-sensitive pets.
“Many pets find the holiday terrifying or anxiety-inducing due to fireworks or other loud, celebratory sounds,” Dr. Wasi Ashraf, Medical Director of VEG ER for Pets in Williamsburg, told The Post. “Dogs and cats have elevated audible abilities. The unexpected booms and vibrations can cause a sudden increase in panic and confusion.
“The biggest danger is that they run away.”
More pets go missing on Fourth of July than any other day of the year. Animals shelters nationwide estimate a whopping 30% of dogs and cats will bolt from fireworks’ fear, and only 14% of these will make it back home.
But it’s not just the noise that puts pets at risk during the holiday — the food, the crowds and even what’s on the ground can be just as dangerous.
Dr. Ashraf’s gave these suggestions to keep your precious pet safe.
- Keep your pet sequestered in a calm, secure space. Dr. Ashraf recommends closing all doors and windows tightly, turning on soothing music with shades drawn, and leave their favorite toys or treats nearby.
- Exercise your pet before festivities begin with a long walk or vigorous play session to tire them out.
- Talk to your vet. “They can prescribe medications such as gabapentin or trazodone to help calm nervous pets,” said Dr. Ashraf. “Never share your own anxiety medication.”
- If you take your pet to a party, watch for discarded marijuana products on the ground. Signs your dog may have ingested pot include swaying, wobbling, vomiting or excessive drooling. Get the pet to the vet ASAP.
- Keep your pet away from the barbecue. “We had a dog that swallowed an entire metal skewer,” said Dr. Ashraf.
- If the party is at your home, keep your pet inside the house or in a gated area.
- Be on the alert for heat stroke. Warning signs include excessive panting, thick drool, bright red or pale gums and rapid heart rate. Take them directly to a vet ER.
- In the city, many gatherings take place on apartment house roofs. If you go to a rooftop party, leave your dog home. They can get upset and bolt, then plummet to the pavement below. “They’re known as ‘high rise’ cases,” Dr. Ashraf said. “They’re often fatal.”
If your dog or cat goes missing in NYC, contact 311 or call 212-NEW-YORK for help.