The night most of us look forward to can be a nightmare for our four-legged pets. Loud fireworks, lighting effects and the smell of burning have a stressful effect not only on wild animals, but also on domestic pets. It is already worth considering how to help your dog survive New Year’s Eve.
How to save your dog’s stress?
An old folk proverb states: “Prevention is better than cure”, and we would only add that if you have the opportunity it is better to avoid than to cure. Is there a place on the map of Poland where you cannot hear fireworks shots? New Year’s Eve is probably the noisiest night of the year. We have to reckon with the fact that it is impossible to completely isolate a dog from the sound of firecrackers. However, there is quite a difference between the number and frequency of sounds in the city centre, which celebrates New Year’s Eve lavishly, and a quiet place on the outskirts. If you have a choice, stay where there is little sound of New Year’s Eve revelry.
How do you prepare your dog for New Year’s Eve?
If you see that your four-legged friend can’t tolerate single gunshots well, let him stay at home and wait out the midnight celebrations in a safe place. We recommend taking a longer walk in the morning when the loud gunshots are even less noticeable. It is worth bearing in mind that each animal reacts individually. A single dose of stress in the form of New Year’s Eve outbursts can cause very strong disturbances in your dog. Below, we have some tips for preparing your dog for New Year’s Eve.
Music
Although the sounds of New Year’s Eve gunshots are very loud, enclosed rooms largely muffle them. If you see your pet reacting to every gunshot, you can try turning on music or television that will muffle the sounds coming from outside.
Toys
Prepare your pet with toys that will occupy their time and help them relax. The best toys are those that hide a snack inside, such as those with a hole in the middle or flat ones with tabs. All ideas allowed – you can make them yourself or buy them ready-made. We recommend using wet dog or cat food as the charge, which will fill the inside of the toy. However, there is sometimes a lack of appetite in dogs who are feeling the stress of New Year’s Eve. If this condition persists for too long, consult your vet immediately.
Resting place
Prepare a resting place for your pet where he feels safe. You can take his favourite blanket or toy and leave it by the bed. If your four-legged friend wants to take refuge elsewhere, allow him to do so. Under no circumstances, however, should you forcefully confine him to solitude.
Remember that every dog reacts individually to different stimuli. When caring for your four-legged friend’s comfort, choose ways to help him get through New Year’s Eve feeling safe and calm.
