How to keep pets calm during fireworks doesn’t have to be a mystery; it just takes a little planning, a few clever tricks, some cuddles, and maybe a treat or two!
Whether it’s Halloween, Guy Fawkes Night or another celebration lighting up the sky, those loud bangs and surprise flashes can be a real fright for our furry friends.
This guide is packed with simple tips to help your pet stay cool, calm, and collected throughout the spooky, fireworks-filled season!
Why fireworks frighten pets
Fireworks might be magical for us, but for pets, they can feel more like an alien invasion than a celebration. All those loud bangs, strange smells, and sudden flashes? No thank you, says your furry friend!
Understanding what freaks them out can help you be their hero when things go boom. When you know the signs, you can step in with cuddles, calm, and clever tricks to help them feel safe.
Loud noises & flashing lights
Your pet’s ears are like little furry super-sensors. So when fireworks go off, what sounds loud to you is absolutely thunderous to them. Add in flashing lights that appear out of nowhere and a few odd smells in the air, and it’s no wonder they’re on edge!
Unpredictability
Fireworks are loud, but they’re also sneaky. Pets can’t predict when the next bang will happen or why the sky is flickering like a disco. There’s no pattern or warning, just surprise after surprise.
If they’ve had a bad experience in the past, that anxiety can build up. One rough fireworks night can turn into a long-lasting fear if pet parents aren’t careful!
Sensitivity in some pets
Just like humans, some pets are more sensitive than others. Things like:
- Breed (some are born with turbo-charged hearing)
- Age (puppies and senior pets may struggle more)
- Past trauma or scary memories
- Lack of experience with loud, strange events
And if your pet already has a health condition, it can turn firework night into a full-blown panic party. But don’t worry, there are lots you can do to help them cope.
How to keep pets calm: Recognising signs of anxiety
When your pet’s stressed, they may not say it out loud (obviously), but their body language speaks volumes. Spotting the early signs of anxiety means you can step in before things escalate. And that makes all the difference.
Behavioural cues
Here’s what to watch out for:
- Shaking or trembling
- Pacing like they’ve had too much coffee
- Hiding behind sofas or under beds
- Trying to escape (yes, even through closed doors!)
- Digging like they’re heading to Narnia
- Barking, whining, or meowing more than usual
- Clinging to you like you’re the last treat on Earth
These are all signs your pet is saying, “I don’t feel safe right now!.”
Physical or other signs
Sometimes, anxiety shows up in sneakier ways, like:
- Drooling or licking their lips
- Ignoring dinner (very unlike them!)
- Shaking even when it’s not cold
- Panting heavily, even if they haven’t exercised
Ears pinned back, tail down, or looking just plain miserable
Keep an eye out; these clues can help you step in with comfort and calm.
How to keep pets calm before fireworks
A little planning goes a long way. If you know fireworks are on the horizon, there’s plenty you can do to get your pet ready!
Create a safe space
Give your pet a cosy hideaway where they can ride out the storm. Pick a quiet room they already like and kit it out with:
- Their favourite blanket or bed
- Toys that bring comfort
- Maybe even one of your jumpers (smells like safety!)
Make sure to also shut the windows, close the curtains, and turn it into a snug little haven.
Desensitisation & training
Fireworks training doesn’t mean teaching your dog to set them off; it means helping them not freak out when they hear them.
Start by playing fireworks sounds at a low volume while rewarding your pet for staying chill.
Over time, increase the volume a little and keep those treats coming. It’s all about showing them that loud bangs can sometimes be good things!
Practical checks & routines
Before the fireworks start, do a few quick things to help everything go smoothly:
- Check their ID tags and microchip info (just in case)
- Feed, walk, and let them out for toilet breaks early
- Give them some exercise during the day to help them burn off energy
Remember that a tired pet is a calmer pet, and a happier one, too!
How to keep pets calm during fireworks
Now’s the time to put your calm game face on. While the sky lights up outside, your job is to keep things mellow indoors!
Keep the environment calm
Keep indoors calm by:
- Closing the windows and pulling over the curtains
- Turning on some chilled music or white noise
- Switching on some soft lighting
Aim for a peaceful and quiet vibe to help your furry bestie go from stressed to chilled.
Owner behaviour matters
Pets take their cues from you, so if you’re tense, they’ll pick up on it.
Stay relaxed, speak softly, and act like everything’s totally normal.
Don’t scold them for being scared. Instead, play a gentle game, offer treats, or just sit nearby with a reassuring presence. Be their anchor!
Use distractions
Distraction is your secret weapon. Bring out the best toys, treats, and puzzles; anything that keeps their brain busy and away from the fireworks.
Even simple playtime can be enough to turn their focus away from the chaos outside, something fun and rambunctious like tug-of-war!
How to keep pets calm after fireworks
Once the noise dies down, your pet might still be feeling the aftershocks. This is the time to ease them back into normal life with love, patience, and a steady routine.
Return to routine
Jump straight back into your usual schedule!
Regular walks, meal times, and play sessions help remind your pet that life is back to normal.
Quiet time together also helps them decompress after all the excitement.
Reassurance
Be their safe place by offering:
- Snuggles (if they’re in the mood)
- Gentle words and calm energy
- Favourite toys or treats to soothe them
Let them know they’re safe now, and you’ve got their back, always!
Observe their behaviour
Even after the fireworks are over, some pets need a little longer to settle. Keep an eye out for things like:
- Loss of appetite
- Hiding or trembling
- Sleep or toilet routine changes
If these stick around, it might be time for a chat with your vet to make sure they’re ok internally.
How to keep pets calm: Rely on VETIQ Serene Calming Supplement Chews
Halloween should be full of treats, not stress, for you and your furry friend. With fireworks, bonfires, and unexpected trick-or-treaters all creating spooky surprises, it’s no wonder our pets can feel a little rattled. The good news is that you’ve got plenty of ways to help them stay calm, cosy, and collected through it all!
From building a safe den and using calming routines to turning up the chill-out tunes, there’s a lot you can do to prep for a peaceful night. And for an extra helping paw, VETIQ Serene Calming Supplement Chews are a handy, treat-like way to keep tails wagging and nerves in check.
Why pet parents love them:
- Great for Halloween stress – Helps soothe nerves during fireworks, bonfires, costumes, and trick-or-treat doorbell chaos
- No sedation, just calm – Keeps your pet relaxed but still themselves
- Tasty roasted meat flavour – Feels like a treat, works like a charm
- Naturally calming ingredients – With things like Chamomile and Lemon Balm to help dial down the drama
- Easy to give – Ideal for the build-up to Halloween night or just before the noise kicks off
So whether it’s spooky sounds, flashing lights, or just a doorbell that won’t quit, Serene Calming Chews combined with your loving care means one chilled-out pet. Because Halloween should be fun for the whole family, even the four-legged ones!
Happy Halloween! 🎃🐾
FAQs: How to keep pets calm during fireworks
Q: Why do fireworks scare pets?
A: Fireworks are loud, unpredictable, and come with flashing lights and strange smells. Pets often feel confused and unsafe, triggering stress or anxiety.
Q: How can I prepare my pet before fireworks begin?
A: Set up a quiet, cosy space with familiar items, play low-volume firework sounds in advance for desensitisation, and stick to calming routines.
Q: What are the signs of stress or anxiety in pets during fireworks?
A: Look for trembling, hiding, pacing, panting, drooling, loss of appetite, excessive vocalising, or attempts to escape.
Q: What can I do to keep my pet calm during fireworks?
A: Close curtains, lower lights, play soothing music, and offer toys or treats to distract. Stay calm yourself; pets take cues from your behaviour.
Q: Are calming chews effective for dogs during fireworks?
A: Yes. Products like VETIQ Serene Calming Supplement Chews use natural ingredients to reduce stress and support relaxation without sedation.
Q: What makes VETIQ Serene Calming Chews different from other calming aids?
A: They contain L-Tryptophan, Chamomile, Lemon Balm, B vitamins, and Omega-3s to support brain health and calm behaviour, all in a tasty roasted meat chew.
Q: What other situations can VETIQ Serene Calming Chews help with?
A: In addition to fireworks, they can help with travel, separation anxiety, thunderstorms, and changes in routine or environment.
Q: Should I stay with my pet during fireworks?
A: Yes. Your presence is reassuring. Speak calmly, avoid scolding, fearful behaviour, and offer positive distractions like play or treats.
Q: What should I do once the fireworks are over?
A: Return to normal routines, offer quiet companionship, and monitor for ongoing anxiety. If stress symptoms persist, consult your vet.
Q: Are some pets more affected by fireworks than others?
A: Yes. Puppies, senior pets, certain breeds, and pets with past trauma or medical issues may be more sensitive to fireworks.
