It should be no surprise that July 5th is known as the busiest day in animal shelters. Many pets, frightened by loud fireworks, escape and become disoriented. Pets often resort to dangerous measures to find safety, which can lead them far from home.

Here are some tips to help comfort your pet and ensure their safety during fireworks:

  • Avoid Fireworks Displays: Do not take your pets to fireworks displays. The loud noises and bright lights can be extremely stressful and frightening for them.
  • Create a Safe Space: Provide your pet with a safe hiding place indoors. Close blinds and drapes, and use music, television, or white noise to mask the outside sounds. Prevent escapes by securing your home and yard.
  • Stay Calm: Comfort your pet with a calm, soothing tone. Pets look to us for reassurance and take cues from our behavior.
  • Consider Calming Aids: Use calming supplements or anti-anxiety medications for excessively fearful pets. Consult your veterinarian for advice.
  • Use Compression Clothing: Products like ThunderShirt can help some pets feel more secure.
  • Ensure Access to Water: Stressed pets may pant more and become thirsty. Make sure they have access to water to prevent dehydration.
  • Be Present: Your presence is reassuring to your pet. If you must leave, ensure your pet is safely contained.
  • Update Identification: Ensure your pet’s ID tags and microchip information are up to date.

But if your pet does go missing, follow these steps:

  1. Contact Local Shelters: Visit in person if you can, but at least call both the SPCA Albrecht Center at 199 Willow Run Rd, Aiken SC, (803-648-6863) and the Aiken County Animal Shelter at 333 Wire Rd, Aiken SC, (803-642-1537). Provide a recent, clear photo of your pet as well as a detailed description, their home location, where they were last seen, and your contact information.
  2. Use Social Media: Post your missing pet on social media, including the Aiken Pets Reunited Facebook page. Include a clear photo, description, and the location and date your pet went missing. Monitor your posts frequently for comments.
  3. Create Flyers: Put up flyers in your neighborhood and distribute them to local rescues and businesses. Include a photo and contact information.
  4. Alert Local Workers: Inform postal workers, delivery drivers, bus drivers, and garbage collectors in your neighborhood. They are frequently in your area and may spot your pet.
  5. Visit or Call Shelters Regularly: Check with local shelters daily to see if your pet has been found.

Keeping pets safe during fireworks does require some effort, but it’s worth it to ensure their well-being. By taking these precautions and knowing what to do if your pet does go missing, you can help keep them safe and sound.

Sarah Neikam is the Marketing Director for the SPCA Albrecht Center in Aiken, SC. She has been with the organization since 2012, holding various roles including Volunteer Coordinator and Director of Operations & HR. A Certified Animal Welfare Administrator as of 2022, Sarah is a passionate advocate for animal welfare. She resides in Aiken with her husband, Tom, and several beloved cats.

Fourth of July Fireworks Are No Fun for Animals!