Fireworks & Furry Friends: Keeping Pets Safe During NYC’s Noisy Nights

New Yorkers come to expect a certain amount of neighborhood fireworks this time of year, and many of our pets are not fans of the commotion.

There’s a very good reason why July is National Lost Pet Prevention Month—more animals go missing around the 4th of July than at any other time of the year. While illegal neighborhood fireworks are often just a frustrating background noise to us, they can be absolutely terrifying for our pets. Dogs and cats don’t understand where the loud bangs are coming from, and their natural instinct is to flee from what feels like a threat.

We don’t want our dogs, cats, or other small pets cowering, shaking, or worse—bolting out the door or window in a panic. So, what can we do to help keep our animals safe and calm?

First, cover your safety bases.

1. Tag and microchip your pets.
This is the most important thing you can do year-round, but especially before the 4th of July. Double-check that your pet’s ID tag has up-to-date contact information and that your microchip is registered to your current address and phone number.

2. Keep pets indoors—always.
Do not bring your pets to rooftop parties, barbecues, or fireworks displays. Even the most well-behaved dog can bolt when startled. If you have friends coming over, make sure your pet has a quiet place away from the action, and that all exits—doors, gates, windows—are secure.

3. Walk early and leash smart.
Get your dog’s walks in during daylight hours, ideally morning or mid-afternoon. If you do have to take your pup out when fireworks are more likely, double leash using both a harness and collar. We recommend snug, properly fitted gear—now is not the time to try that loose new harness.

Next, help them cope with the stress:

APPAREL

Sometimes comfort comes in the form of a hug—literally.

• Thundershirts and calming coats provide gentle, swaddling pressure around your pet’s body that can have a naturally soothing effect.

• Happy Hoodies are a favorite of groomers and anxious pet parents alike—they slide over your pup’s ears and head like a soft snood, muting the loud bangs and helping reduce sensory overload.

These work best when introduced before the fireworks start, so your pet doesn’t associate them with the scary sounds.

TREATS & CALMING AIDS

Food can be medicine—especially when it’s infused with natural calming ingredients.

• Brands like PetHonesty, Zesty Paws, and Premium Care make highly-rated calming chews with ingredients like hemp, chamomile, and L-theanine.

• Bach’s Rescue Remedy is a popular flower essence tincture you can add to water or a treat.

• For cats, there are Feliway diffusers and sprays that release soothing pheromones into your home.

Always test these ahead of time so you can monitor your pet’s response—and as with all supplements, check with your vet first if your pet has health conditions or takes medication.

TECHNOLOGY & SOUND THERAPY

The right sounds can make all the difference.

• Try white noise machines, air purifiers, or calming playlists like Zen Dog, iCalmPet, or Canine Lullabies.

• Streaming platforms like DogTV and even YouTube have hours of relaxing visuals and soundtracks designed for pets.

Pro tip: Create a cozy den by playing music in a quiet room, dimming the lights, and encouraging your pet to relax there with a favorite toy or bed.

CAT-SPECIFIC TIPS

Cats are often even more sensitive to sound and visual stimuli. In addition to all of the above:

• Block out the flashes by drawing curtains or using blackout shades.

• Create a safe space—a closet, a covered cat condo, or even a blanket-covered carrier in a quiet room.

• Make sure windows are closed and secure. A scared cat can squeeze through screens or even knock them loose in a panic.

If calming tools aren’t enough

Despite your best efforts, some pets simply don’t cope well with fireworks. If your dog or cat is showing signs of severe anxiety—shaking, drooling, hiding for hours, or becoming destructive—speak with your vet about short-term anti-anxiety medications. These are often used safely during holidays and can make a huge difference in your pet’s comfort and safety.

And if you’re not able to be home

We get it. Sometimes your schedule doesn’t line up with NYC’s fireworks season or you may even want to be out ENJOYING the fireworks in the city! If you’re out of town and you’ve hired a pet sitter to stay with your pet, just make sure they are aware of his/her anxiety with the fireworks and are experienced with how to care for pets in these circumstances. And if you’re heading out for the night to enjoy the fireworks with friends, consider hiring a pet care professional to come in and stay with your furry companion while you’re out. At The Perfect Pooch NYC we offer hourly pet sitting for these kind of circumstances. So reach out if you need a few hours of relief for yourself and some love & cuddles for your furry friend(s)!

Stay safe, keep your pets close, and enjoy your summer! We’ll see you out on the quieter streets soon.