Written by Chloe Champo
Fireworks are often a symbol of joy and celebration, they light up the sky during special holidays like New Years Eve. While they bring excitement to us, they can cause fear and even harm to our beloved animals.
At CARA, we believe that every celebration should be done in a safe and compassionate manner, not just for people, but also for the pets and stray animals who share our space and community. Here is some good-to-know information about how fireworks affect animals and what you can do to protect them during the holiday season!
The Hidden Toll of Fireworks on Animals
The loud explosion, flashing lights and sudden vibrations can trigger panic and stress to animals as they have a wider range of hearing and more heightened senses than us humans. Some common reactions to look out for include:
- Trembling or shaking
- Whimpering, barking, or meowing excessively
- Refusing to eat or drink
For older or more sensitive animals, fireworks can cause hearing damage and even heart attacks.
How to Keep Your Pets Safe During Fireworks
- Keep Them Indoors
- Before the fireworks begin, make sure your pets are secured and safe inside your home. Ensure that all windows and doors are closed and curtains are up to help muffle the noise and flashes. You can also create a small “safe space” in a cozy corner of your room where your pet can feel secure. While it is nice to include our pets during festivities like this, outdoor fireworks can be incredibly overwhelming for them which can lead to stress or even accidents.
- Comfort, Don’t Scold
- If your pet reacts fearfully, make sure to stay calm and reassuring. Fear is a natural emotional response, especially for creatures who do not understand the context of the loud noises. Your calm presence and gentle cuddles help them feel safe.
For Stray Animals in Your Community
Fireworks frighten stray cats and dogs and other wildlife that have nowhere safe to hide. During celebrations, these animals often run aimlessly in panic, which puts them in risk of injury, getting lost, or run over by a vehicle.
Here’s how you can help:
- Offer shelter: You can leave your gate or garage open so that frightened strays can take temporary refuge during the peak of the fireworks.
- Provide food and water: Place bowls with food and clean water in quiet, hidden spots once the fireworks subside to help them recover.
- Check for injuries: Look out for any hurt or disoriented animals and reach out to local rescue groups or take them to your nearest veterinary clinic for assistance.
Even small acts of compassion can make an incredibly big difference for animals who are trying to survive the noise and confusion during the holiday season.
Alternative to Fireworks:
We can still celebrate the coming of the new year without causing unnecessary distress to our furry loved ones. Many cities are now using different alternatives to fireworks that are animal-friendly and also environmentally conscious. Encourage your community to explore these safer alternatives!
Celebrations are meant to bring people together. Be part of the community that takes a thoughtful and caring step for our furry friends to make them feel safe even during the loudest festivities by having kindness a part of your celebrations. Let’s keep our pets and community animals safe this holiday season!
