In the Philippines, fireworks are a vibrant and deeply rooted part of every major celebration. From Christmas gatherings to fiestas and especially New Year’s Eve, the moment the sun sets, communities light up the sky with dazzling fireworks displays.
While this holiday tradition brings joy to many people, it can be deeply distressing for pets. For pet owners, the fireworks season often comes with worry, as loud noises, bright flashes, and unexpected noises can be overwhelming for animals at home.
Understanding how to help your pets remain calm during fireworks is essential, particularly for many dog owners and cat lovers who see their animals become scared, afraid, or even terrified once the noise begins.
With the right preparation, knowledge, and care, your cats and dogs can feel safe and better able to cope during these noisy events.
What is Pet Anxiety and Why Do Fireworks Trigger It?
Anxiety in animals refers to a state of fear, panic, or stress caused by a perceived threat.
Dog anxiety and feline stress can be triggered by many things, but fireworks are among the most common causes because of their unpredictable nature.
When fireworks begin, the sudden sound, vibration, and flashing lights can negatively impact a pet’s sense of safety and make them feel afraid.
Common signs of anxiety include excessive panting, trembling, barking, whining, pacing, hiding, attempts to escape, or destructive behavior. Dogs may display signs of fear by tucking their tails between their legs. For scared cats, they may hide and look for secluded spaces where there’s less noise from fireworks.
Many dogs and cats also lose appetite or become clingy.
During New Year’s Eve events and celebrations, these reactions intensify as loud noise continues for hours, making it harder for animals to relax and return to a calm state.
8 Expert Tips on How to Calm Pets During Fireworks Season
There are several strategies for you to help your pets reduce stress and anxiety when fireworks begin.
We have some of the most expert tips to follow. However, if your pets show extreme signs of distress, it’s important to take your pet to the veterinarian to get checked.
1. Create a Safe Haven Inside the House
One of the most effective tips is to create a safe place or safe haven indoors where your dog or cat can hide and feel safe.
This can be a quiet room, a crate, or a corner of the house away from windows and doors.
Add familiar bedding, favourite toys, and comforting scents. Closing curtains as soon as fireworks begin can help mask flashes, while securing doors ensures safety and prevents escape.
2. Mask Loud Noises
Using white noise, music, or leaving the TV on can help mask the sound of fireworks.
Soft, steady sounds (like white noise or brown noise) promote relaxation and help pets cope better with sudden bangs from fireworks. Keeping windows closed also reduces the intensity of loud external noise.
3. Stay Calm and Provide Comfort
Pets look to their owner for cues and signs of anxiety.
If you remain calm and stay calm, your pet is more likely to relax. Speak in a gentle word or talk softly to reassure them.
Avoid scolding fearful behavior, as it can increase stress and make your pet more anxious. Instead, focus on providing comfort through calm presence and reassurance.
4. Maintain a Normal Routine
As much as possible, stick to your pet’s normal routine, including feeding times, walk schedule, and playtime earlier in the day before fireworks intensify.
Familiar routines promote a sense of stability and reduce stress during a stressful event or celebration.
5. Use Toys, Treats, and Distractions
Interactive toys, puzzle feeders, and special treats can redirect attention and encourage a dog’s calm state.
Gentle play or chewing activities help release nervous energy and promote relaxation, especially before anxiety escalates. Cats may also benefit from familiar music or gentle TV noise.
6. Consider Pheromone Diffusers and Calming Supplements
Pheromone diffusers mimic natural calming signals and can help anxious pets relax indoors.
Calming supplements designed for animals may also help, but always consult a veterinarian before introducing any supplement, medication, or remedy.
For severe cases, a vet may recommend prescription medication options to manage extreme fear or panic.
7. Keep Pets Indoors and Secure
During fireworks displays, keep animals indoors at all times.
Secure the garden, doors, and windows to prevent frightened pets from running away. Many pets go missing during the holiday due to panic-driven escape attempts during firework displays.
8. Prepare in Advance
Preparation is key. Before the fireworks season peaks, condition pets by gradually introducing low-level sounds and rewarding calm behavior with treats and affirming talk.
This helps some cats and dogs cope better when real fireworks start.
Special Considerations for Cats
While many dog owners notice anxiety more clearly, cats also experience fear and stress. Cats may hide under furniture, avoid interaction, or become aggressive when anxious.
Ensure their safe place is respected, and avoid forcing contact. Familiar smells, toys, and quiet environments are especially important for cats during loud holidays.
A Community Approach to Pet Safety
Fireworks are a cherished Filipino tradition, but responsible celebration matters. Choosing considerate times, reducing unnecessary noise, and being mindful of neighbors’ pets can make a difference. Thoughtful planning helps ensure that festivities do not come at the cost of animal well-being.
This is where communities like Camella stand out. As a developer that values family life, community harmony, and pet health, Camella encourages responsible fireworks displays and promotes awareness of pet safety during holidays.
With thoughtfully planned neighborhoods, secure homes, and a strong sense of community, Camella supports pet owners in creating environments where pets can feel protected, calm, and cared for even during noisy celebrations.
As we welcome every holiday, including New Year’s Eve, let us celebrate in ways that allow both people and pets to enjoy the season. With preparation, compassion, and the right environment, pets can feel safe, loved, and less worried when fireworks light up the sky.
