Independence Day is my least favorite holiday.
Why?
Because so many animals suffer through it.
While fireworks might be fun for humans, they’re deeply distressing for our animal companions. Every year around July 4th, I hear from heartbroken pet parents whose animals bolt from the house, tremble uncontrollably, or even end up in the emergency vet.
The loud bangs, flashing lights, and deep vibrations overwhelm pets’ nervous systems.
And once they’re in panic mode, it’s incredibly hard for them to settle. Their fear drowns out everything—including your voice.
What Panic Looks Like in Pets
Your pet might not “act scared” in a way you expect. But these signs can mean they’re already overwhelmed:
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Panting, drooling
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Pinned-back ears or tucked tails
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Whining, barking, crying
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Lip licking, yawning
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Pacing or restlessness
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Refusing food or treats
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Hiding under beds or in closets
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Over-grooming or paw licking
Once your animal hits the “red zone,” they aren’t ignoring you—they literally can’t hear you over their body’s fear response.
That’s why prevention is the best medicine.
Kobe Bear Hated Fireworks—and Taught Me So Much
My beloved Keeshond, Kobe Bear—now In Spirit—struggled terribly with fireworks. The first July 4th we spent together, I had no idea he’d melt down the way he did. He trembled, barked, paced, and tried to hide in the smallest spaces he could find.
Even though I could communicate with him telepathically, the fear was louder than my reassurances. One year, he became so panicked he tried to jump out of a second-story window—desperate to escape what felt like danger all around him.
I closed windows. I played music. I stayed by his side. But it wasn’t enough. Looking back, I wish I had explored medication with my vet sooner. Sometimes, even with all our tools and love, our animals need more support than we can give on our own.
🐾 9 Tips to Help Your Pet Feel Safe and Calm Over
These simple steps will go a long way in helping you keep your animal family safe.
1. ID tags = your pet’s ticket home.
Even indoor pets can bolt through doors or screens. A collar with a current ID tag and your mobile number is the quickest way to get them back.
➡️ Check microchips and keep info up to date. Horses benefit from breakaway halters with contact info, too.
2. Fireworks don’t have to be close = still scary.
Your pet can hear and feel fireworks going off blocks away. Their hearing is far more sensitive than ours.
➡️ Stay aware of neighborhood plans and prepare ahead.
3. Early exercise = less panic later.
A good walk or play session helps burn off energy and tension. Tired pets are often less reactive.
➡️ Potty breaks should happen before the booms begin.
4. Safe space = sanctuary, not punishment.
Set up a cozy, quiet spot with familiar bedding and scents. Use crates or closets if that’s where they feel safe.
➡️ For cats, provide water, litter, and hiding spots.
5. Your presence = their greatest comfort.
You don’t have to fix it—you just have to be there. When you stay grounded and calm, your animal feels it.
➡️ Sit with them, meditate, or simply breathe together.
6. Less stimulation = more calm.
Close curtains and windows. Dim the lights. One bright flash can undo hours of calm.
➡️ Cover crates lightly if that helps your pet feel tucked in.
7. Comfort tools = extra support.
ThunderShirts, calming music, and Animal Reiki all help regulate the nervous system.
➡️ I recommend Lisa Spector’s Dog Gone Calm music for both pets and people. I’m also offering distance Reiki sessions all week.
8. Chews and games = gentle distraction.
Try frozen Kongs, puzzle feeders, or play sessions—but only if your pet’s open to it.
➡️ Some pets will refuse food when they’re stressed. That’s okay. Don’t force it—just be there.
9. Medication = a valid form of support.
If your pet melts down every year, talk to your vet early. The right medication may save your pet from trauma—or worse.
➡️ This isn’t about sedating them. It’s about protecting their well-being.
🎉 Bonus Reminder: Keep Pets Safe at 4th of July Gatherings
Did you know that most pets end up at the emergency vet on July 4th for reasons that have nothing to do with fireworks?
🍖 Greasy BBQ scraps, corn cobs, and chocolate can cause serious digestive issues—or even require surgery.
🔥 Hot pavement burns paws quickly.
☀️ Heatstroke can set in fast at crowded, noisy backyard parties.
If you’re celebrating, set your animal family up for safety:
✅ Keep them in a cool, quiet space away from the action
✅ Make sure they have fresh water and shade
✅ Don’t let guests feed them—even accidentally
✅ Avoid sparklers, glow sticks, and noisemakers around pets
A little prevention goes a long way in protecting the ones you love.
You’re Not Alone
If you need extra support, I’m here. I offer Animal Communication sessions to help your pets understand what’s going on around them—and Reiki to bring them (and you) calm, grounding, and connection.
🌿 Book a session here
📩 Or reach out with questions: cathy@animalmuse.com
Wishing you and your animal family a safe, calm, and connected 4th of July.
Peace and Light,
Cat Malkin
The Animal Muse
