Chicago, IL – Fireworks are expected across the Midwest tonight as New Year’s Eve celebrations begin, prompting dog owners in Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Michigan, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Missouri, Kansas, Iowa, and Nebraska to take precautions to reduce anxiety and prevent escapes.
Even in areas without official fireworks displays, loud booms and flashes are common throughout the evening and into the early morning hours. Animal shelters across the Midwest consistently report New Year’s Eve as one of the busiest nights for lost dogs due to noise-related panic.
Fireworks noise is expected to be widespread in major population centers including Chicago and Rockford in Illinois, Indianapolis and Fort Wayne in Indiana, Detroit and Grand Rapids in Michigan, Cleveland and Columbus in Ohio, Milwaukee in Wisconsin, Minneapolis–St. Paul in Minnesota, St. Louis in Missouri, Kansas City in Kansas, Des Moines in Iowa, and Omaha in Nebraska.
How to Calm Dogs During Fireworks
Pet safety experts recommend preparing early, before fireworks begin:
- Bring dogs indoors well before sunset
- Walk dogs earlier in the evening
- Secure doors, windows, and fencing
- Create a quiet, enclosed safe space
- Close curtains and use steady background noise
- Stay home with dogs during peak fireworks hours
- Confirm ID tags and microchip information are current
Dogs with a history of noise sensitivity may benefit from calming wraps, pheromone diffusers, or veterinarian-approved medications prescribed ahead of time.
Signs of Severe Stress
Persistent shaking, pacing, heavy panting, drooling, destructive behavior, or repeated escape attempts may indicate extreme anxiety. Punishment can worsen fear responses and should be avoided.
With fireworks expected across multiple Midwest states tonight, dog owners are encouraged to plan ahead and closely monitor pets through the early morning hours.
How does your dog handle fireworks? What helps them stay calm?
