Preparing to Celebrate a Pet-Safe New Year’s Eve
New Year’s Eve is a time for celebration, with fireworks, parties, and midnight toasts. But while the night is full of excitement for people, it can be stressful and potentially dangerous for pets. The loud noises, party guests, and tempting treats can make keeping your four-legged friend safe and comfortable a challenge. Luckily, a little preparation can go a long way in creating a pet-friendly New Year’s celebration. Here are some tips to ensure your furry friend starts the new year off safely and happily.
Pet-safe New Year’s Eve tip #1: Provide a quiet, safe space
Fireworks, music, and party sounds can overwhelm pets, especially dogs and cats with anxiety issues or sensitive hearing. Create a quiet, cozy space away from the action where your pet can retreat if they feel anxious. Set up their favorite bed or blanket in a secluded room and consider adding a noise machine or soft music to muffle outside sounds. You can also provide a food-puzzle toy as a distraction from the excitement. A safe spot will help reduce stress and keep your pet comfortable throughout the night.
Tip #2: Keep pets indoors
Keep your pet indoors on New Year’s Eve to prevent them from being frightened and running away. Pets are more likely to go missing on New Year’s Eve because sudden loud noises can cause them to panic and escape. Ensure doors and windows are securely closed, and ask guests to be mindful when entering and exiting your home to prevent accidental escapes. Also, ensure your pet is microchipped and that they always wear a collar with up-to-date, legible identification tags.
Tip #3: Avoid party hazards
New Year’s Eve parties can expose your pet to certain hazards. Alcohol and some foods, including chocolate, xylitol-containing baked goods, grapes, onions, and garlic, are toxic to pets. In addition, decorations, such as confetti, tinsel, and balloons, can cause an intestinal blockage if swallowed. Ensure trash is securely closed to prevent curious pets from sneaking dangerous leftovers, and pick up all party debris as quickly as possible.
Tip #4: Be mindful of fireworks
Fireworks are a common source of fear and stress in pets, as the sudden loud noises can trigger anxiety. If you expect fireworks near your home, distract your four-legged friend by closing the curtains to block out flashing lights and playing calming music or a pet-friendly television show. For extreme anxiety, consult your veterinarian in advance about options such as sedatives or anti-anxiety medications. Behavior modification techniques, such as counterconditioning and desensitization, can also help, but must be started weeks or months before the event.
Tip #5: Stick to your pet’s normal routine
Pets are creatures of habit, so try to keep your pet’s routine as normal as possible on New Year’s Eve. Feed them at the usual time, take them on their regular walks, and make time for play and cuddle sessions, because a familiar routine can help them feel more at ease during the excitement. Extra exercise during the day may also help tire out your pet, so they will more easily relax when the festivities begin.
With a bit of preparation, you can ensure that your New Year’s Eve is safe and stress-free for your four-legged friend, and these tips can make a big difference in how your pet handles the holiday.
Cheers to a happy and pet-friendly new year! If your pet experiences fireworks-associated anxiety, contact your AAHA-accredited veterinarian for advice on helping them through the New Year’s festivities.