Fireworks & Furry Friends: How to Keep Your Pets Calm on the 4th of July


For many of us, Independence Day is a time of celebration—barbecues, sparklers, parades, and dazzling fireworks lighting up the night sky. But while we’re enjoying the festivities, our pets may be experiencing one of the most stressful days of the year.

The 4th of July is one of the top days for pets to go missing. The loud noises, flashing lights, and crowds can easily overwhelm even the most well-behaved pets. As responsible pet parents, it’s crucial to be proactive in protecting and calming our furry companions.

Here are some essential tips to keep your pets safe, calm, and secure this 4th of July:

🐾 1. Create a Safe Space Indoors

Set up a quiet, cozy area in your home where your pet can retreat if they feel overwhelmed. Use blankets, toys, and familiar items to make them feel secure. If possible, choose a room without windows to muffle sound.

🔇 2. Drown Out the Noise

Play calming music, turn on the TV, or use a white noise machine to help mask the sound of fireworks. Try soothing playlists made specifically for dogs or cats—you’ll find plenty on YouTube and Spotify.

🐶 3. Don’t Take Your Pet to Fireworks Shows

Even if your dog is usually sociable, public firework events are no place for pets. The loud noises, crowds, and chaos can lead to anxiety or even cause your pet to run away.

📋 4. Ensure ID Tags and Microchips Are Up to Date

In case your pet does escape, make sure their collar and ID tags are current, and double-check that their microchip is registered with the correct contact information.

💊 5. Consider Calming Aids

There are a variety of calming solutions available—CBD treats, calming vests, pheromone sprays, or veterinarian-approved anxiety medication can help if your pet is especially anxious. Consult your vet ahead of the holiday.

🚪 6. Secure Doors, Windows & Fences

Fireworks can startle pets into darting out open doors or jumping over fences. Keep windows closed, doors locked, and never leave your pet unsupervised outside during the evening.

🤗 7. Stay Calm & Offer Reassurance

Your pet picks up on your energy. Speak gently, remain calm, and avoid punishing fearful behavior. Instead, offer quiet reassurance and lots of love.

Final Thoughts: Celebrate with Care 🎇🐕

While the 4th of July is a blast for humans, it can be a frightening experience for pets. By taking the right precautions, you can reduce stress, prevent escapes, and help your pet feel safe during all the noise and excitement.

Remember: The best celebration is one where every member of the family—furry ones included—feels safe, loved, and secure.

📣 Have your own firework safety tips for pets? Drop them in the comments below or share how your pet handles the 4th of July!


  


MEET COSIMO





Cosimo

American Bulldog Mixed Breed

Cosimo was abandoned at a rural Georgia shelter when he needed help the most. Thanks to your support, we were able to provide Cosimo with the emergency medical care he so desperately needed. Today, those dark days are behind him. Cosimo is a calm, affectionate soul who thrives on love, cuddles, and quiet companionship. He’s gentle, low-maintenance, and ready to start over in a forever home where he’ll finally be cherished. Could you be the one to give Cosimo his second chance?

All dogs will be altered, microchipped, and receive age-appropriate vaccines prior to adoption. Please note that the listed location for this dog may not be accurate due to technical limitations of this database and we have transportation options available within 6 hours of NYC (so don't let location hold you back)!

Interested in fostering or adopting?  Need more info on this dog?  The first step in the process is filling out an application on our website.

Adoption application:  www.nycsecondchancerescue.org/general-application/

Foster application:  https://www.nycsecondchancerescue.org/dog-foster-application/

Adoption process & fees:  www.nycsecondchancerescue.org/process/

For a full list of our available dogs and current adoption promotions, visit:https://nycsecondchancerescue.org/adoptable-dogs/

Not what you were looking for? You can adopt a different pet by using our search feature and adjusting the radius. Thank you for helping our animal shelters and rescue groups with pet adoption. 

NameCosimo
Adoption Fee$350.00- Dog Adult
Age2 years, 2 months
GenderMale
SizeMedium
Shots up to dateYes
OK with kidsNot Sure
HousetrainedNot Sure
HypoallergenicNot Sure
Spayed / NeuteredYes
OK with dogsNot Sure
OK with catsNo
If you have questions about Cosimo please contact 

NYC Second Chance Rescue


-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


Transporting dogs is our passion but passions come at a cost. With the price of everything increasing, (gas, tolls, supplies, etc) we could use some help! If you can, we would graciously accept some donation assistance. Venmo @dalind31 


THANK YOU!!

Thinking it's time to expand your family? Want to explore rescuing a dog of your own? 
Check out Second Chance Rescues available pups  --> CLICK HERE <--

Thinking maybe fostering is more your speed? --> CLICK HERE <--

Maybe you can't adopt or foster but can help in another way? 
To donate to Second Chance Rescue... --> CLICK HERE <-- Every bit helps!

Remember to, #adoptdontshop #becausetheymatter.
There is no love like the love from a rescue! ❤️🐶❤️






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