Happy New Year! We hope you had a wonderful holiday season and are ready to ring in the new year and bid a happy farewell to 2024!
In many parts of the world, New Year’s Eve is celebrated with music, dancing, drinking, and fireworks. Year-end events are welcome for those who don’t have a dog at home, but some can be scary for dog parents.
As the parent of an anxious rescue dog, fireworks stress me out just as much as they do her.
Dogs can become overwhelmed by the noise and unpredictability of their surroundings, especially on New Year’s Eve. It’s always good practice to keep their routine as normal as possible and put their needs first. Because if they are happy, you will be happy too.
Many counties and countries around the world have called for bans on fireworks to protect pets, some with more support than others. Having fireworks in a fixed location at a fixed time is much easier to manage than setting off fireworks in a public place where neighbors can set off at any time.
With the new year just around the corner, you, like many of us pet parents at Dogster, may be looking to have some fun and keep your fur babies safe. After all, knowing your dog is having fun will help you start 2025 more happily.
If you’re in an area where the public can set off fireworks, it’s a good idea to talk to your neighbors so they can prepare your pup. Please check with local authorities before large public fireworks displays are held.
5 tips to keep your dog safe at New Year’s Eve fireworks displays
1. Create a safe space
Provide a cozy, quiet place for your dog to go when he feels stressed. This could be a favorite room or a box with bedding and comfort items like toys or an unwashed shirt that smells like you.
2. Drown out the noise
Using a white noise machine, electric fan, or soft music to muffle the sound of fireworks can help calm your dog. You can also turn on a TV that plays calming sounds (or a movie your dog enjoys) to help your dog relax.
3. Store indoors
Bring your dog indoors before the fireworks start. Close windows, doors, and curtains to reduce noise and prevent your dog from running away if startled. Please do not bring your dog to the fireworks display.
4. Provide comfort
If your dog is feeling anxious, stay close. Speak to them in a calm, reassuring voice and avoid scolding them or increasing their panic. In some cases, an anxiety-reducing wrap or vest may provide additional comfort.
5. Update your identification information
Make sure your dog’s ID tag and microchip information is up to date. Even if you run away, there is a higher chance that you will be reunited soon.
For more ways to keep your dog safe during fireworks, check out our complete vet-approved guide here.
There are many other dangers, such as decorations, food, and strangers, to name a few. Thinking about tonight from your dog’s perspective will help you and your family start the new year smoothly.
What do you think about banning fireworks? Let us know in the comments section below.
And of course, Happy New Year! See you in 2025! Thanks for reading!
