Ditch the Social Media Trends: What Works to Keep Dogs Calm During Fireworks

AUSTIN, Texas – June 25, 2025 – Social media is filled with “pet hacks” leading up to the July 4th holiday, each claiming to keep dogs relaxed during fireworks. From homemade wraps to doggie headphones, the tips might be well-meaning, but what really does work?

Dr. Tony Coronado, Vice President of Emergency Medicine at Thrive Pet Healthcare, says some of these popular concepts are unhelpful at best, and harmful at worst.

“It’s not about what’s trending on social media, it’s about recognizing your dog’s needs and preparing a peaceful, controlled setting for them,” said Dr. Coronado. “Each year, our emergency hospitals treat dogs injured while trying to escape fireworks. The dogs will leap through windows, chew through crates, and run out of their own yards. It’s a sad but avoidable consequence when fear is not managed appropriately.”

Here are the most popular hacks on social media, including what is safe and what is not, along with recommendations from Dr. Coronado.

Some social media posts suggest dogs are scared because they can’t see where the noise is coming from. Dr. Coronado warns against this: “Bringing dogs closer to fireworks exposes them to louder sounds, bright flashes, and strong smells, all of which can overwhelm them. This approach often intensifies fear, not reduces it.”

Although frequently discussed on the internet, Benadryl is not an anxiety medication. “It may make some dogs drowsy, but it’s not reliable and can cause the opposite effect in some dogs,” said Dr. Coronado. “Always check with your vet before giving any over-the-counter drugs.”

From elastic bandages to plastic wrap, some pet owners attempt makeshift “anxiety wraps” that claim to calm dogs through pressure on their bodies. “These can be ineffective or even harmful if they restrict breathing or movement, or if your dog tries to chew them off,” said Dr. Coronado.

“The products may be helpful for some dogs, but the effects are mixed, and the products themselves aren’t regulated,” said Dr. Coronado. “Always talk to your veterinarian for recommendations and dosing.”

They provide gentle pressure, which can be helpful to some dogs, but don’t hope for a miracle. “They can provide comfort for mild anxiety, but they won’t work for all dogs, especially those with severe phobias.”

“Noise-canceling headphones designed for dogs might muffle sound slightly, but many dogs won’t tolerate wearing them, especially for extended periods,” Dr. Coronado said.

Desensitizing a dog to fireworks by listening to taped recordings can be helpful, but only if done correctly and started months in advance of the holiday. “Doing this a few days before the 4th won’t work,” said Dr. Coronado. “You risk increasing your dog’s anxiety instead.”

“The best thing you can do is create a quiet room where your dog feels safe,” said Dr. Coronado. A quiet, dark room away from windows, like a closet or covered crate, can muffle noise and flashing lights from fireworks. Sound machines or calming music can also drown out other noise.

For highly anxious dogs, prescription medications such as trazodone or gabapentin can be helpful, but they must be provided in advance and under veterinary supervision. “These medications can be part of a successful plan, but they’re not a last-minute fix,” Dr. Coronado said.

If your dog has a severe phobia of fireworks, Dr. Coronado urges pet owners to always consult with their family veterinarian or board-certified veterinary behaviorist well before the fireworks begin. “Every dog is different. Your vet can work with you to develop a personalized plan for your dog’s specific needs.”

To find a Thrive Pet Healthcare location near you, including primary, specialty, urgent, and emergency veterinary care services, visit www.ThrivePetCare.com.