How to prepare
There are a few things you can do in advance to make New Year's Eve easier for your dog. Make sure to set up a cozy corner for your dog a few days in advance where he feels safe. A cozy blanket, his favorite toy, and dim lighting can work wonders when the first fireworks are set off in the days leading up to New Year's Eve. At this time of year, you should take your dog for a walk in the early afternoon while it's still light outside. This way, you can avoid the stress of the first firecrackers being set off in the dark.
New Year's Eve training for dogs
One way to familiarize your dog with the loud noises is to use special audio files for desensitization and preparation. As a form of training, you can play the sounds of rockets and firecrackers to your dog and give him a chance to get used to them over a longer period of time.
New Year's Eve with dog without fireworks
If you want to spare your dog the stress altogether, a vacation in an area with a fireworks ban might be a good idea. The East Frisian North Sea island of Spiekeroog, for example, almost completely forgoes the colorful spectacle. This way, you not only spare your dog the excitement, but also you the preparation.
During New Year's Eve: Keep calm
When the countdown is on, it's especially important to be there for your dog. Your four-legged friend should not be left alone during this time, if possible.
- Stay calm : Dog owners are often a bit tense on this evening, too. However, your own calmness can be directly transferred to your dog and have a positive effect.
- Reduce noise : Keep windows and blinds closed to dampen the noise and light from the rockets. Familiar background sounds like music or a television can also be calming.
- Activity : Give your dog something to do. Your four-legged friend's favorite chew toy can help distract him and keep him occupied.
What you should avoid
Never light rockets or firecrackers near your dog. The smell and noise can be extremely stressful. Furthermore, New Year's Eve is not the time for new foods, exciting toys, or major changes to your daily routine. Stick to tried-and-true routines and offer your four-legged friend a familiar place to retreat to.
Tips if your dog is particularly anxious
Some dogs are extremely sensitive to stimuli on New Year's Eve. In such cases, you can take additional measures:
- Sedatives: Herbal remedies such as Bach flower remedies not only have a calming effect on humans, but can also provide relief for our four-legged companions on stressful days. In the form of drops, Bach flower remedies can easily be added to your dog's food or water. In particularly serious cases, you should consult your veterinarian beforehand. They can recommend specific remedies suitable for your dog.
- Protection from noise: You might consider getting hearing protection for your dog. Special noise-cancelling headphones, such as the Mutt Muffs, can be particularly helpful if your four-legged friend reacts strongly to loud noises.
Dangers after New Year's Eve
Especially on New Year's Day, there can be dangers lurking while walking your dog. Broken glass and rocket debris often take several days to completely remove, so you should make sure your dog doesn't come into contact with them while out walking.
