Secure your pet’s safety, prevent escapes and minimize firework anxiety
June 27, 2023 (AUSTIN, Texas) – The 4th of July is a time for celebration, but the loud and unpredictable noises of fireworks can cause distress for our furry companions.
Thrive Pet Healthcare, a leading veterinary service network with 400 locations across the U.S., is urging pet owners to take proactive measures to ensure their pets’ safety and well-being during this festive holiday.
Dogs and cats have a heightened sense of hearing, making the booming sounds of fireworks incredibly intense for them. Unfamiliar and loud noises trigger their fight-or-flight response, leading to anxiety and confusion. To help alleviate the stress caused by fireworks, pet owners are encouraged to take the following precautions.
Microchip your pet – Fireworks can be scary for pets and their instinct to run puts them at risk of getting lost. Microchipping is a safe and effective procedure that provides a unique identification code for your pet. By registering your pet in a microchip database, you can ensure easy identification and a higher chance of reunion if they become lost.
Remove potential escape routes – Check your fencing for any openings or weaknesses that could allow your pet to escape. Secure collars and harnesses properly to prevent slipping away. Ensure the barriers are free of sharp edges that could harm your pet. Limit access to windows and glass doors to prevent your pet from breaking through the glass in an attempt to escape.
Stick to routine – Maintain your pet’s daily routine leading up to the fireworks event. Dogs and cats thrive on consistency, and sticking to their regular care schedule helps reduce anxiety.
Natural remedies for anxious pets – Explore natural or herbal-based products such as chewable supplements, herbal sprays or anxiety jackets to help ease your pet’s stress. Consult your veterinarian before using any supplements to ensure their safety and effectiveness.
Tire them out – Engage your pet in additional exercise and playtime throughout the cooler parts of the day to help drain their energy before the fireworks begin. This can be particularly effective for pets that tend to get amped-up around fireworks.
Anxiety medications – If your pet’s anxiety becomes a significant issue, consult with your veterinarian about anxiety medications that can be prescribed to improve their well-being. Discuss the pros and cons of these medications in advance of the fireworks event.
Have a plan for unexpected illness or injury - Since your family veterinarian may be closed over the holiday, keep a list of nearby urgent care and emergency veterinary hospitals in case your pet becomes sick or injured.
To help comfort your pet during fireworks, Thrive Pet Healthcare recommends providing a safe space in a dark, secluded area of your home, minimizing outside sounds and lighting, and offering positive reinforcement for calm behavior. Additionally, leading by example and remaining calm yourself can help reassure your pet that fireworks are not a threat.
“The Independence Day holiday is a wonderful time to create lasting memories with all members of the family, including our furry companions,” says Dr. Anthony Coronado, Thrive Pet Healthcare’s National Director of Emergency Services and Urgent Care. “If you know your pet is fearful of fireworks, it’s crucial that you proactively address their anxiety and seek professional advice, if needed. As veterinarians, we can recommend personalized solutions and provide the necessary support to ensure the well-being of your beloved companions.”
To discover the closest Thrive Pet Healthcare location offering primary, specialty, urgent and emergency veterinary services, as well as participating Thrive Plus membership hospitals, visit
www.ThrivePetCare.com.
About Thrive Pet Healthcare:
Thrive Pet Healthcare is a leading veterinary service network that uniquely delivers a continuum of care to pet families and services to veterinary hospitals. With an industry-first membership program and 400 acute, primary, and specialty providers, Thrive Pet Healthcare offers personalized, accessible care through every stage of a pet’s life and health. The veterinarian-founded organization provides premier benefits for practice staff while elevating privately held veterinary hospitals with innovative service and technology solutions. By focusing on the needs and aspirations of veterinary care providers, Thrive Pet Healthcare is supporting the well-being of the industry and raising the national bar for veterinary excellence. To learn more about Thrive Pet Healthcare, please visit
www.thrivepetcare.com.
