Keeping Your Pets Calm on New Year's Eve

New Year's Eve is always an exciting time for most people – big parties, talks of plans for the next year and of course fireworks! But that last part can often be a source of anxiety and stress for our four-legged friends. Loud bangs, unexpected noises and bustling celebrations can often create a stressful environment for the little guys, and that isn't fair to them. We've all heard the stories of that one person who calls the fire department for their pooch, and no one wants to be that guy. So, we did a little research and found a few vet-approved strategies to help minimize their discomfort, the Police Dispatch and yours – keeping dogs, cats and other common pets calm and happy as we all ring in the New Year. Firstly, let's discuss a few generalized tips – this could be setting up a quiet, comfortable area in your home where your pet can retreat during the festivities. Fill this space with familiar items like bedding, toys and water to provide a sense of security. A designated "safe zone" can help your pet feel protected from the commotion. To add to this, you can also play a bit of soothing music or use a white noise machine to drown out the sound of fireworks – classical music, in particular, has been found to have a calming effect on pets. It's also important to note that animals are incredibly perceptive and can pick up on your emotions. Maintaining a calm demeanor around your pet during this time can help them feel more at ease. This means that you should avoid reacting to loud noises or showing signs of anxiety yourself. If you know that your pet has severe anxiety, it might be worth discussing anti-anxiety medications or natural calming supplements with your vet. Over-the-counter options like CBD treats or anxiety vests can also provide relief for some pets. Another good preparation tip is to ensure your pet has up-to-date ID tags and is microchipped. If your pet gets frightened and escapes, this will help with their safe return. Now let's move on to man's best friend! A great start is to take your dog for a long walk or engage in a vigorous play session earlier in the day. This exercise could tucker them out and burn off any excess energy early on, helping them feel more relaxed when the evening festivities begin. Another tip is to plan ahead by purchasing a desensitization tool. This can be a useful way to gradually expose your dog to recorded fireworks sounds before the big show. Starting at low volumes and increasing the volume over time can help them build tolerance to loud noises. Another great tool is the use of pressure garments, such as Thunder Shirts, which can provide comfort by applying gentle pressure to your dog's body. This pressure mimics the sensation of a hug, which can have a calming effect on anxious dogs – which is a lot like a weighted blanket for us! Moving on to our beloved felines, if you aren't already in the know, cats are sensitive to loud noises and flashing lights. So, a great and easy idea is to try and keep them indoors – and to piggyback on that, block windows and doors with curtains where possible, to reduce their exposure to external stimuli. Keep in mind, however, that cats instinctively seek out hiding places when they're stressed. Ensure they have access to their favorite secluded spots, such as closets or under furniture, where they can feel safe. If none of these fit the bill, and you happen to have something like a bunny that may typically be housed outside, consider bringing them indoors during New Year's Eve. Much like you would for a hamster or guinea pig, place their enclosure in a quiet room away from loud noises and provide additional bedding materials for burrowing. This allows small animals to engage in natural behaviors, which can help reduce stress levels. Covering their cage with a blanket can also muffle the noise and create a sense of security – but be sure to leave enough ventilation to keep your pet safe. Of course, at the end of the day, we can't always protect our little furballs to the extent we want to. Sometimes things do get out of hand, so it's important to never scold them for being scared. Remember, they're living creatures with emotions and feelings – just like you – so it's best to offer reassurance and comfort. By following these tips (and keeping emergency hotlines open for emergencies), you can make New Year's Eve a calmer and more comfortable experience for everyone.