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 you 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 before New Year's Eve. At this time, you should take your dog for a walk in the early afternoon when it is still light outside. This way you can avoid the stress when the first firecrackers are 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 that you can use for desensitization and preparation. As a type 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 where fireworks are banned can 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 yourself the preparations.
During New Year's Eve: Keep calm
When the countdown is on, it is especially important to be there for your dog. Your four-legged friend should not be alone during this time if possible.
- Stay calm : Dog owners are often a little tense on this evening. However, your own calmness can be transferred directly 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 noises such as music or a television can also have a calming effect.
- Occupation : Give your dog a task. Your four-legged friend's favorite chew toy can help your darling distract himself and keep himself busy.
What you should avoid
Never light rockets or firecrackers near your dog. The smell and noise can be extremely stressful. New Year's Eve is also not the right time for new types of food, exciting toys or major changes to everyday life. Stick to tried and tested 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 flowers 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, you can easily add Bach flowers to your dog's food or water. In particularly serious cases, you should consult your veterinarian beforehand. They can recommend special preparations that are suitable for your dog.
- Protection from noise: You can 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 bangs.
Dangers after New Year's Eve
There can be dangers lurking when you go for a walk, especially on New Year's Day. Broken glass and rocket debris are often only completely removed after a few days, so you should make sure that your dog does not come into contact with them when walking.
