Ready or not Independence Day Week is here and now is the time to prepare your animal family to stay safe and secure.
Why?
Because so many animals suffer from the fireworks.
Did you know that more pets go missing over this holiday then any other time of year?
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 and any attempt to soothe them.
My Dog Feared Fireworks
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 tried to distract him and stayed by his side. But it wasn’t enough. Looking back, I wish I had explored medication with my veterinarian. Sometimes, even with all our tools and love, our animals need more support than we can give on our own.
Now is the time to set your animal family up for safety:
Create a plan of action now to make sure they are safe and secure when the fireworks are happening.
✅ Keep them in a cool, quiet and secure space away from the action.
✅ Make sure they have fresh water and shade if their outdoors.
✅ 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.
🐾 9 Tips Keep Your Pet Feel Safe and Calm
These simple steps will go a long way in helping you keep your animal family safe and secure as their world explodes.
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.
➡️ Consider attaching an AirTag or GPS tracker to their collars
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.
➡️ Consider streaming pet calming music
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, distract them with toys or tasty treats, or simply breathe together.
6. Less stimulation = more calm.
Close curtains and windows. Dim the lights. One bright flash can undo hours of calm. Play calming music like My Zen Pet.
➡️ Cover crates lightly if that helps your pet feel tucked in.
7. Comfort tools = extra support.
Animal Reiki help regulate your animal’s nervous system.
➡️ I’m offering distant Reiki sessions all week.
8. Animal Communication = Help your pet feel safe through shared understanding
➡️ Explaining the fireworks and your plans helps your animal feel included, supported, and more grounded—even during chaos.
9. Medication = a valid form of support.
If your pet melts down every year, talk to your vet before the holiday starts. 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 Gatherings and BBQs
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.
You’re Not Alone
📩 If you need extra support, reach out: cathy@animalmuse.com
Wishing you and your animal family a safe, calm, and connected 4th of July.
