Jodi Polanski
Submitted photo
By Jodi Polanski | Lost Our Home Pet Rescue
Every year around the Fourth of July, Valley pet shelters receive a surge of calls from distressed pet parents. Some are looking for lost pets who bolted during fireworks; others are asking for advice on how to soothe a shaking, panicked animal. And sadly, we often take in new strays — terrified dogs and cats who broke free in fear and couldn’t find their way home.
From where we stand as a rescue shelter on the front lines, one thing is clear — fireworks may be fun for humans, but for many pets, they’re terrifying.
The loud bangs, flashing lights and strange smells that occur nightly from June 24 to July 6 in many areas can trigger intense anxiety and even trauma. Some animals are so frightened they’ll break through windows, chew through crates or scale high fences in an attempt to flee.
July 5 is the year’s busiest day for shelters nationwide because of the number of pets that flee the night before during Independence Day fireworks. Shelters nationwide often see a 30% to 60% spike in lost pets after fireworks-filled weekends.
But there are steps pet owners can take to reduce their animals’ stress and keep them safe.
Fireworks safety tips for pet owners
1. Keep pets indoors, ideally in a secure, quiet room away from windows. Curtains and white noise can help muffle sounds.
1. Update your pet’s ID tags and microchip information to help them get home if they do escape.
3. Create a calming space with familiar toys, blankets and treats. Some animals respond well to calming music or pheromone diffusers.
4. Avoid bringing pets to fireworks displays. Even well-trained, calm dogs can panic and bolt.
5. Consult your vet about anxiety treatments. There are effective anti-anxiety medications and calming supplements available that can make a big difference.
6. Recognizing and treating fireworks anxiety
At Lost Our Home Pet Rescue, we’ve seen the emotional toll untreated anxiety can take on animals. Pets may exhibit shaking, hiding, drooling, destructive behavior or attempts to escape. While behavioral training can help, some animals — especially those with traumatic pasts — need more support. Veterinarians can recommend treatments including:
• Prescription anxiety medications (e.g., trazodone, alprazolam)
• Over-the-counter calming aids (CBD, melatonin, pheromone sprays)
• Compression garments like ThunderShirts
• Behavior modification therapy or desensitization techniques
If you adopt a pet, we strongly encourage early desensitization to loud noises — but it must be done gradually and compassionately.
We love celebrations, too. But when we’re standing beside a trembling dog or a cat frozen with fear, our priority is their safety. Let’s all ensure everyone, two-legged and four-legged, has a safe and happy holiday!
Editor’s note: Jodi Polanski is executive director of Tempe-based Lost Our Home Pet Rescue. Please send your comments to AzOpinions@iniusa.org. We are committed to publishing a wide variety of reader opinions, as long as they meet our Civility Guidelines.
