Overview
- Dogs and cats detect much higher frequencies than humans—reported up to about 65,000 Hz—so pyrotechnic explosions feel overwhelmingly intense.
- Veterinarians describe stress responses that include adrenaline and cortisol surges, with tachycardia, rapid breathing, tremors, freezing, and destructive escape attempts.
- New guides outline a simple refuge using an interior room or a roomy box or cooler wrapped with egg cartons for sound dampening, plus familiar bedding and calming music.
- For those without a prepared setup, specialists advise staying calm, moving pets away from doors and windows, sealing openings to cut noise, and providing close reassurance.
- Noise phobia is often undertreated—surveys show few owners seek help—yet severe cases may require behavioral therapy or medication to reduce risks like injury or cardiac events.