pets
Fireworks might be a thrilling spectacle for us, but for our furry companions, they can be an allout nightmare. That dazzling sky show? Your dog might see it as a full-scale invasion.
To get to the bottom of why fireworks rattle our pets, and what we can do to help, we turned to someone who’ s seen it all: Dr Carra Walters. Dr Walters owns the Hillcrest Veterinary Hospital in KwaZulu-Natal, and has a background in Biological and Medicinal Chemistry, a veterinary degree from Edinburgh University, and nearly two decades of experience. She also consults for major pet brands like RCL and Ultra Pet, and hosts the popular Paws and Effect podcast.
“ Every year we see the same heartbreaking cases,” says Dr Carra.“ Pets arrive with injuries from trying to escape or they’ re so shut down from fear they can’ t eat or sleep. Owners are desperate and often they had no idea what to expect.”
But with a little preparation and understanding, fireworks season doesn’ t have to be a nightmare – for you or your pet.
Why fireworks freak out pets
It’ s not just the noise … it’ s the unpredictability.“ Most pets, especially dogs and cats, have a far more sensitive sense of hearing than we do,” explains Dr Carra.“ Loud bangs, high-pitched whistles and sudden flashes can easily overwhelm them. For animals that haven’ t been gradually desensitised, these stimuli can trigger a primal‘ fightor-flight’ response.”
In other words, it’ s not about a pet being‘ bad’ or‘ dramatic’, it’ s just biology.
Spotting the signs of stress
The obvious signs include shaking, pacing, panting, hiding, excessive vocalisation and escape attempts.
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“ While some pets will tremble or hide, others may show more subtle signs.” According to Dr Carra, you should look out for yawning, lip-licking, dilated pupils or even clingy behaviour. These are all signs your pet is feeling overwhelmed.
The sooner you spot it, the sooner you can help.
How to help: creating a safe, calm space
Prevention really is better than cure. Dr Carra recommends turning your home into a sanctuary before the fireworks begin:
Planning ahead …
Set up a safe zone“ Pick a quiet, internal room, like a bathroom or closet, and make it feel like a den,” she says.
Block out the world Use blackout curtains and mask the noise with calming music, white noise, or the TV.
Add comfort Favourite blankets, toys or even your recently worn T-shirt can help.
Stay close Your calm presence can be incredibly reassuring, as long as you’ re not fussing or reinforcing their fear.
Try pheromone diffusers“ I use Adaptil and Feliway in my own home – they release calming messages pets naturally recognise,” Dr Carra adds.
Calming aids: when you need a bit more help
For some pets, as Dr Carra points out, background music and a dark room just won’ t cut it. That’ s where vet-approved aids can come in.
• Prescription meds: Options like trazodone or dexmedetomidine can help, but they must be used under a vet’ s guidance.
• Supplements: Products like Anxitane( L-theanine) and Zylkene( milk protein) are“ great for pets with mild to moderate anxiety,” says Dr Carra.
• Compression garments: Think ThunderShirts –“ some pets love them, others don’ t. Trial them ahead of time,” she advises.
• CBD oil? Proceed with caution.“ While some owners swear by it, the quality and regulation vary widely. Always talk to your vet first.”
Dr Carra is clear:“ Don’ t wait until the fireworks start to try something new. Trial everything well in advance. You want to know that it works and is well tolerated.”
When panic runs deep
Some pets have severe phobias and need a bit more help.“ If your pet has had a bad reaction before, start planning weeks in advance,” says Dr Carra. That might include:
• a consultation with your vet;
• a trial run of medications;
• working with a qualified behaviourist;
• tracking your pet’ s responses; and
• even relocating during peak fireworks if needed.
“ It’ s about having a plan. Don’ t wing it on the night.” �
• Keep microchip and ID tags up to date.
• Ensure that the safe space tested and ready.
• Ensure desensitisation is started early – low-volume firework sounds + treats = positive association.
• Stay calm yourself – pets are emotional sponges.
• Avoid punishment –“ Fear isn’ t misbehaviour,” reminds Dr Carra.“ They’ re not being naughty. They’ re scared.”
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