How to Keep Your Dog Safe and Calm During Fireworks in Charleston

If your dog hates fireworks, you’re not alone. And you’re not overreacting by preparing ahead.

Here in Charleston, 4th of July celebrations rarely stay confined to a single night. Fireworks start days in advance and often continue well into the weekend. From neighborhood cul-de-sacs to downtown rooftops, the booms can happen anywhere, at any time.

For pets, that unpredictability is terrifying. Every year, shelters across the country see a spike in lost pets over the July 4th holiday. Most of these incidents are preventable with just a little bit of planning.

So if you're a pet parent in Charleston, here’s how to help your pup or kitty stay safe, calm, and close to home this fireworks season.

Why Fireworks Are So Scary for Pets

Before we jump into the “how,” it helps to understand the “why.”

1. Fireworks Are Loud

Our pets have incredible hearing, far more sensitive than ours. That distant pop you hear? They hear it as a full-volume explosion. Sudden loud noises like booms, crackles, and whistles are especially frightening for animals that don’t know where the sound is coming from or when it will happen next.

2. They’re Unpredictable

You and I know when fireworks are likely. Our pets don’t. From their perspective, these explosions just happen out of nowhere and repeat with no rhythm or warning. That randomness makes it even harder for them to adjust or feel safe.

3. They Trigger a Threat Response

When your pet hears something they perceive as dangerous, their instinct is to protect themselves. This can look like barking, growling, pacing, panting, whining, or trying to hide. It’s a natural fight-or-flight reaction.

4. There’s Nowhere to Go

Even indoors, pets can still hear the fireworks. When their flight response kicks in, they may try to escape entirely. That’s how even well-trained dogs end up jumping fences or digging out of yards. Cats might try to dart out a door or window. It’s not disobedience. It’s panic.

How to Help Your Pet Feel Safe

The good news is that you can absolutely help your dog or cat feel more secure when the skies start lighting up. Here’s what we recommend at Paws Up!

• Walk Early

Plan your dog’s potty breaks and walks earlier in the day, well before sunset. Get some energy out with a walk or play session so your pup is more likely to rest calmly in the evening.

Need help fitting in that pre-fireworks walk? The Paws Up! team is available from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. to help keep your dog happy and tired.

• Keep Pets Indoors

Even if your pet usually hangs out in the yard or your cat comes and goes, bring them inside before the fireworks start. A startled pet can bolt in seconds. Fences won’t stop a determined escape attempt.

• Create a Safe, Cozy Space

Choose a quiet area away from windows. A closet, bathroom, or quiet corner of the house can work well. Add their favorite bed or blanket, a few toys, and calming music or white noise. Try the Peaceful Pet Music YouTube channel for soothing playlists specifically designed for pets.

• Try Enrichment and Distraction

Give your dog something engaging to focus on, like a frozen Kong, lick mat, or snuffle mat. Chewing and licking are naturally calming for dogs, so these activities can help reduce anxiety. Just be sure to introduce them in advance, not right as the fireworks begin.

• Use Calming Tools

Some pets benefit from calming wraps like a Thundershirt or from pheromone diffusers like Adaptil. Others respond well to calming chews or supplements or CBD oil. Every dog is different, so it may take a little experimentation to find what works. Talk to your vet if you think your pet might benefit from medication.

• Don’t Leave Them Alone

If you’ll be out celebrating, make sure your pet is set up with everything they need before you go. Leave the TV or calming music on. Give them an enrichment toy or treat. If your pet is extremely anxious, consider staying home or arranging for someone to stay with them.

Don’t Forget: ID Tags and Microchips Save Lives

Even indoor pets should wear a collar with up-to-date ID tags during fireworks season. Make sure your pet’s microchip is registered with current contact info. It’s a simple check that can make all the difference if your pet manages to escape.

Bonus: Desensitization for Long-Term Help

If your dog is sensitive to loud sounds, start desensitizing them well in advance of fireworks season. Play fireworks sounds at a low volume while giving treats or playing. Gradually increase the volume over time. This can help your dog build a positive association with the sound. Go slowly and watch for signs of stress.

You Can’t Control the Fireworks But You Can Control the Environment.

Helping your pet feel safe doesn’t require a lot of money or fancy gear. It just takes thoughtfulness, preparation, and a calm presence. With just a little prep work, you’ll reduce the risk of escape, anxiety, and stress. And that means more peace of mind for both of you.

At Paws Up!, we’re here to support you with midday walks, enrichment-based care, and helpful advice rooted in real pet experience. Whether your dog needs to burn off energy before the booms begin or your cat needs extra love and calm while you’re away, we’ve got your back.

Ready to schedule a pre-fireworks walk or have questions about how we help anxious pets?

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