Fireworks & Pets

Posted 20/05/2022 | |  
Fireworks Exploding in Sky

Fireworks might be cool to watch for humans, but for our pets, they can be terrifying.

The loud and unexpected booms that come with fireworks displays can cause stress, health issues, and dogs can take off running from fright. Many animal shelters see an increase in stray dogs that have run away after holiday weekends. 

And last year, Little Foot the cat was surrendered into our care with an infected wound that was caused by May long weekend fireworks. 

Cat Sitting and Posing for Photo

If you were thinking of setting off fireworks to mark the holiday, think about the harm you could be causing to the pets in your family or to your neighbour’s pets.

If you know fireworks will be set off around your home, there are some precautions you can take to help minimize stress to your pets:

Keep your pet secured and inside

No open doors or windows, not in a fenced yard. Your dog may bolt and run away if they are frightened. Even from a fenced yard. They have no idea what is going on or what to expect.

Leave your dog at home or skip the event and stay home with them

If you are planning on going out do not take your dog with you however easy going they are. 

Make sure your dog or cat has a safe place

Away from windows where the flash and noise is worse. Turn on the TV or have a radio playing comforting music for them.

Take your dog for a walk early

In the day so you can avoid the need to let them out after dark. Even a fenced yard is not secure.

Keep your dog or cat busy

With activities such as playing with toys or giving them a Kong/catnip to help distract them during firework activity.

Make sure your dog’s collar is secure and your cat/dog is microchipped.

If they somehow escape be sure to contact the local Animal Services immediately and provide their identification information such as microchip number.

Cat Drop In Visiting Hours

Weekdays| 10:30 am – 11:00 am & 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Weekends | 2 pm – 6 pm

Dogs are by appointment only. Please fill out an application and an EHS representative will contact you.
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67 Six Point Road
Toronto, Ontario | M8Z 2X3
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