Fireworks and summer storms can turn an otherwise happy pet into a bundle of nerves. If you’ve ever seen your dog tremble during a thunderstorm or your cat dart under the bed at the first pop of a firecracker, you know exactly how stressful it can be — for both of you.
The good news? With a little preparation, you can make fireworks and storm season a lot more manageable (and a lot less scary) for your four-legged family members. Let’s dive into some practical, pet-parent-tested tips that will help your dog or cat feel safe, secure, and a little less panicked when the sky starts booming.
1. Create a Safe Space
First and foremost, your pet needs a place where they feel totally secure. Think of it like building them their very own little “storm bunker.” This could be a cozy spot in a quiet room, a crate covered with a blanket, or even a closet if they like tighter spaces.
Add comfy bedding, some favorite toys, and maybe an old t-shirt that smells like you. Familiar scents = instant comfort.
Pro Tip!
🌟 Keep a “storm bag” ready. Stock a small bag with your pet’s comfort items — a favorite blanket, a calming toy, and some treats — so you can quickly set up their safe space when a surprise storm or fireworks show rolls in.
2. Use Sound to Soothe
Soft background noise can help drown out scary sounds. Try playing calming music, running a white noise machine, or even just turning on the TV at a low volume. Some pets actually respond really well to classical music (who knew your dog might be a secret Mozart fan?).
If you want to get extra fancy, there are playlists and albums made specifically for calming pets. Look for ones labeled “anxiety relief for dogs” or “cat relaxation music” on your favorite streaming service.
3. Keep Them Secure (Especially Outdoors)
If you have a dog that spends any time outside, it’s essential to make sure they’re safely secured — even if it’s just a quick potty break during fireworks or storms. Scared pets are notorious for bolting through fences, slipping out of collars, and running blindly into the night.
One of the smartest things you can do is use a reliable GPS dog collar. That way, if your pup does manage to slip away in a panic, you’ll be able to track them in real time and bring them home safely.
➡️ Check out our full guide to the best GPS dog collars if you want to see some options we trust.
4. Try Natural Calming Aids
Sometimes a little extra help is needed. Natural calming supplements — like those made with ingredients such as L-theanine, chamomile, or CBD — can be absolute game-changers for pets who struggle with anxiety during loud events.
Just make sure you talk to your vet first, especially if your pet is on any other medications.
➡️ We put together a list of the best supplements for dogs (and a few good ones for cats, too) if you’re looking for something gentle but effective.
5. Stay Calm Yourself
Pets are incredibly tuned into our emotions. If you’re stressed and pacing around every time you hear thunder, guess what? Your pet is going to think it’s time to panic, too.
Try to stay as calm and casual as possible. If you notice your dog trembling or your cat hiding, resist the urge to overly comfort them. Instead, act like everything is normal. A relaxed, happy human gives off major “everything’s fine” vibes that your pet will pick up on.
6. Consider Desensitization Training
If you have some time before the peak fireworks or storm season, you can actually help desensitize your pet to loud noises. Start by playing recordings of fireworks or thunder at a very low volume while giving treats and acting relaxed.
Gradually increase the volume over days or weeks, always rewarding calm behavior. Over time, many pets can learn that booms and bangs aren’t so scary after all.
7. Plan for Potty Breaks Wisely
Nothing adds insult to injury like your dog being too scared to go potty because the sky sounds like it’s exploding. Try to get bathroom breaks in before the storm or fireworks start, if you can.
If you must go out during the noise, keep it short, stay close to home, and use a leash even if your yard is fenced. Better safe than sorry!
Pro Tip!
🌟 Thunder jackets aren’t just trendy — they really work! Compression-style vests can provide soothing pressure that helps some pets feel much calmer. It’s like a big, wearable hug for your dog or cat.
Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, fireworks and thunderstorms are always going to be a little scary for some pets. But with a little prep work — and maybe a good GPS collar and a calming supplement on hand — you can make it a whole lot easier on them (and you).
The most important thing is being patient, staying calm, and giving your furry friend all the love and support they need to ride out the storm, fireworks, or whatever else Mother Nature (or your neighbors) throw your way.
You May Also Like...
Keep your dog safe while they explore with top GPS collars and virtual fences. From advanced tracking to adaptable boundaries, find the perfect solution here!
10 Best Dog Food Delivery Services of 2024
You know that choosing the right dog food is absolutely vital to your pup’s health and happiness, but with busy schedules, getting top-quality meals can be a challenge.
Best Self-Cleaning Litter Boxes for Cats
We’ve reviewed the top self-cleaning litter boxes to help you find the perfect one for your cat. We’ve ranked the best options based on performance, design, and ease of use.
