The 4th of July brings plenty of excitement like patriotic parades, backyard barbecues, and the grand finale: fireworks. But for many people and pets, these celebrations can also be a source of intense stress. Loud noises, crowded events, and disrupted routines can cause anxiety and overwhelm even the most festive spirits. Pets, especially dogs, often respond with panic, trembling, and escape attempts when the explosions begin.
Fortunately, CBD has gained attention as a natural, non-intoxicating option to help both people and animals manage this stress more comfortably. Whether you're navigating a noisy neighborhood or calming a nervous pup, CBD might just be the tool to make Independence Day more enjoyable for everyone.
Why the 4th of July Can Be Difficult
For many people, the sounds and activity of the holiday can lead to heightened anxiety, overstimulation, or sleeplessness, especially when routines are thrown off. For veterans and others with PTSD, loud fireworks can act as traumatic triggers, making the celebration feel more like a challenge than a joy.
Pets, too, are highly sensitive to the loud cracks and flashes of fireworks. It's common for them to react with behaviors like shaking, hiding, barking excessively, or trying to run away. Some may even experience digestive issues or a reduced appetite, all of which are signs of distress that can last well beyond the holiday evening.
How CBD Can Help You This Holiday
CBD, the naturally occurring compound found in hemp plants, works with the body’s endocannabinoid system to promote a sense of calm and internal balance. It can help soothe feelings of anxiety and tension without any intoxicating effects. This can be especially helpful for those who feel overwhelmed by crowds or loud environments. Taking CBD earlier in the day may also help ease you into a more relaxed evening.
For human use, we recommend trying our 23mg Full Spectrum CBD Tincture as a great beginner daytime tincture to help ease stress and promote calm your nerves throughout the day. 23mg's of CBD is a great serving size for the day time to feel relief without having to worry about whether you'll get too sleepy. Alternatively, if you need something you can easily take with you on the go and take discreetly, try one of our 20mg Full Spectrum CBD Gummies.
After a long day of walking, hosting, or enjoying festive outdoor activities, CBD topicals can also offer relief for sore muscles or minor aches to help you wind down more comfortably and feel your best the next day. Our top-selling Muscle, Joint, and Nerve Salve is a potent topical salve packed with CBD and inflammation-reducing compounds, like Arnica, to help ease aches and pains while offering relaxing aromatherapy via organic essential oils.
Supporting Your Pets With CBD
When it comes to pets this Fourth of July, CBD may be exactly what they need. CBD can help reduce the intensity of their stress responses. It works by calming their nervous system, making them less likely to react in panic when the fireworks begin. Plus, unlike some prescription medications that can leave pets feeling groggy, off-balance, or disoriented, CBD offers much gentler support without sedation or intoxication.
Many pet owners report that CBD has been helpful in easing their dogs’ anxiety. In a study conducted by Cornell University, dogs were given CBD chews before experiencing a stressful situation. The results showed that 83% of the dogs displayed reduced signs of stress and anxiety-related behaviors. A recent 2024 study at the Waltham Petcare Science Institute found that CBD positively influenced various behavioral and physiological indicators of stress in dogs. Dogs that received CBD displayed a calmer emotional state, significantly reduced levels of the stress-hormone cortisol, and fewer anxiety-related behaviors like whining and lip-licking. The study also revealed that the calming effects of CBD were consistent over the six-month study period while also being equally effective after a single dose.
It is clear CBD can be a helpful aid in keeping your pets calm this 4th of July. And fortunately, giving your pet CBD will not even be half the battle administering medications can be. Your pet won't be running for cover from CBD. Our Pet Care Tincture can easily be mixed into their food or offered on a treat. Some pets love it and will come begging for it. For the best results, give it to your pet about 60 to 90 minutes before the fireworks or festivities begin, allowing enough time for the calming effects to kick in.
Tips for Using CBD on the 4th
When choosing a CBD product, it’s important to look for those that are clearly labeled and backed by third-party testing. These tests confirm purity and potency, and ensure you're giving yourself or your pet a safe product.
Why Choose Our Pet Care Tincture?
At Flora Sophia, our Pet Care Tincture was created with your pet’s health and safety in mind:
Pet-formulated: Gentle and effective with full-spectrum hemp extract, MCT Oil and nutrient-rich hemp seed oil.
Organic & clean: Made from organic pet-safe ingredients and free from artificial flavors or unnecessary fillers.
Easy to use: The dropper makes dosing simple- whether placed directly in the mouth or mixed into food.
Lab tested: Every batch is third-party tested for purity and safety. Lab results can be found here!
How Much CBD Should You Give Your Pet?
Dosing depends on your pet’s weight and individual needs. It is recommended to start with a beginning dose of 1-2mg of CBD per 10 pounds of weight. It is always best to start with a low dose and increase gradually as needed, keeping a detailed log of how your pet responds. And of course, these are suggested guidelines based on the current available research, and we recommend customers consult a veterinarian about introducing CBD as an addition or replacement to a pet care treatment plan.
Pairing CBD With Other Calming Tools
CBD works best as part of a broader calming strategy. Creating a quiet, cozy “calm zone” inside your home can provide a safe retreat for pets. Playing soft music or white noise can help muffle the sound of fireworks. For humans, staying hydrated and taking CBD consistently, rather than waiting until anxiety peaks, can make a big difference. And for pets, combining CBD with familiar comfort tools like toys, walks, or extra snuggles can enhance the effect.
Final Thoughts: A Calmer, Happier 4th of July
The 4th of July doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With thoughtful preparation and the support of high-quality CBD, you and your pets can have a more peaceful, enjoyable holiday. Plan ahead, use trusted products, and set the stage for a celebration that keeps everyone in the family feeling safe and calm.
Here’s to a happier, more relaxed 4th of July for you, your pets, and for your peace of mind.
