* Line up some chemical calm. If you know your pet looks for a place to hide and shiver at the neighborhood's first noise, call your veterinarian in advance to get a medication to keep him calm. While you are at it, ask if your vet is available for after-hours emergencies, and if not, get the location and phone number of the nearest emergency clinic. You never know if you will need it. One usually calm dog I know jumped through a sliding-glass door after firecrackers went off in the yard behind him. Fortunately, his owners knew where to take him, and he got the prompt care he needed to save his life.