The festive crackle of holiday fireworks can bring joy to people, but for pets—especially dogs—the noise can be overwhelming and even dangerous.
Dr. Alice Utlang, head of the Cebu City Department of Veterinary Medicine and Fisheries (DVMF), said that dogs’ sensitive hearing makes them particularly vulnerable to the sudden loud bursts of fireworks.
“Dogs need to release their energy and feel secure before the noise starts,” Utlang said.
She stressed that owners should avoid leaving pets alone during peak fireworks hours and that simple preparations hours before the noise can make a significant difference in keeping them calm.
Practical steps for pet owners
Utlang outlined several measures that can help dogs remain relaxed during holiday celebrations:
Exercise early: Walking, running, or playing fetch three to four hours before fireworks can help dogs release excess energy.
Feed ahead of time: A full meal an hour or two before the fireworks can help pets feel calmer.
Offer a gentle massage: Massaging a dog’s head, neck, spine, and legs about 30 minutes before fireworks can promote relaxation.
Keep pets indoors: Providing familiar “safe spaces” such as under the bed, beneath a table, or inside a kennel can help dogs feel secure.
Relocate if necessary: For homes in particularly loud areas, moving pets temporarily to a quieter location may be the safest option.
Reassure afterward: Spending calm, comforting time with pets after the fireworks can help them settle even if they were stressed during the noise.
Veterinarians and animal welfare groups note that dogs often perceive fireworks as threats, triggering panic responses such as shaking, hiding, excessive barking, or attempts to escape.
PAWS calls for firecracker-free celebrations
The Philippine Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) is appealing to the public to avoid using firecrackers to welcome the New Year.
“We are making an appeal to the public not to use firecrackers to welcome the New Year,” said PAWS executive director Ana Cabrera.
“Animals have far more sensitive hearing than humans, and what may be momentary noise for us can feel like a life-threatening event to them.”
Cabrera warned that loud explosions can trigger extreme fear, stress, injuries, escapes, road accidents, and even death among pets and stray animals.
“They get confused and they bolt out of the house because of fear,” she added. (LLP)
Image from When In Manila
