Overview
- Recent guidance warns that fireworks can trigger fear and disorientation in pets, with dogs reported to perceive blasts up to five times more intensely than humans, leading to hiding, shaking or escape attempts.
- Purpose-built YouTube options such as Relax My Dog, Relax My Cat, Pet Relaxation and Calm Your Dog provide long streams engineered with white and brown noise, low frequencies and repetitive rhythms to mask sudden peaks.
- For best results, start playback at least 30 minutes before fireworks, keep volume high enough to cover outside noise without being harsh, close windows and curtains, and position audio near a prepared safe space.
- Trainer Alan Peiró advises low-volume firework sounds during pleasant activities with gradual increases, steady companionship, no scolding or forcing, and a refuge the pet can enter and leave freely.
- Practical steps include making the final walk before 9 p.m. to avoid midnight blasts, with specialists cautioning against sedating or medicating pets for fireworks.