New Year’s Eve is a big day for shelters. They see more lost pets than almost any other day of the year, with the Fourth of July being the exception. Fireworks and loud noises can be incredibly stressful for dogs.
Find out how to keep your dog safely and happily at home with this guide to a stress-free New Year’s Eve with your dog.
1. Desensitize them to Firework Noises
For most dogs, fireworks are the most stressful part of New Year’s Eve. Did you know that you can slowly desensitize your dog to loud noises by playing them at a low volume?
The easiest way to do this is to find a video of fireworks on your phone or computer. Play it at the lowest volume while your dog is occupied playing, chewing, or eating. Look for signs of stress, including subtle cues like yawning, lip licking, excessive panting, or whale eyes.
If your dog shows no signs of stress after ten minutes, turn the volume up slightly. Keep them distracted and make it a pleasant experience despite the noise in the background. You can even give them treats to associate the sound with their favorite foods.
The moment your dog appears stressed, turn the volume down or the noise off completely. Remember that the goal isn’t to push your dog’s limits, but to build positive associations. Repeat the steps above daily. Most dogs will be able to listen at louder volumes over time without a reaction. However, this won’t work for every pup, especially those who have had bad experiences in the past.
2. Tire Them Out Before Midnight
If your dog already has a bunch of pent-up energy, it may turn into anxiety once the fireworks start. A tired dog is less likely to react.
If you can, add in an extra walk or run before bed, more playtime, or something mentally engaging like a puzzle toy or lick mat.
3. Set Up a Quiet Space
Before the festivities start, get your dog comfortable in the quietest part of the house. This could be a basement, or perhaps the room furthest from your loudest neighbors. You can also choose someplace your dog feels most comfortable already, such as their crate.
Fill their space with their favorite toys and make it cozy with blankets, pillows, or dog beds. Then, choose something that can block out noise such as a white noise machine, music, or the TV.
4. Buy a Dog Anxiety Vest or Hood
Dog anxiety vests and hoods work the same way–by compressing part of the body to provide comfort. These garments work wonders for some dogs while providing no benefit to others or even stressing them out further. Unfortunately, it can be difficult to know how your dog will react ahead of time.
An alternative to buying an anxiety vest is to use fabric you already have on hand,as it’s rectangular and double your dog’s body length. Wrap it around your dog’s chest, cross it over the shoulders, wrap it under their stomach, and then tie it at the back. It should fit snugly without causing discomfort or cutting off circulation.
Never attempt to put a vest or hood on your dog while they’re already stressed. It can add to their anxiety and they might bite out of fear.
5. Stay Indoors During Fireworks
If at all possible, stay indoors while the fireworks are going off. This won’t be a problem for most dogs, but some might need an extra potty break so they aren’t begging to go out at midnight.
If you can’t help but go out, make sure your dog is on a secure leash. Even dogs who have a solid recall might get spooked by fireworks and run away–they can’t help their fight or flight response!
6. Don’t Leave Your Dog Alone
If your dog is afraid of fireworks, please don’t leave them alone on New Year’s Eve! Remember that dogs don’t understand why all the loud noises are happening, which makes them extremely frightening. Not knowing where you are can add to that fear.
Instead, stay with your dog and provide comfort in the ways they prefer. They might want to cuddle on your lap, or maybe just knowing you’re in the same room will calm them down.
7. Make Sure Your Dog Has ID Tags and a Microchip
More dogs get lost on the Fourth of July and New Year’s Eve than any other day of the year. This is because fireworks make them panic and run away from home. Scared dogs can’t think straight, run further than they would otherwise, and may not know how to get home once they’ve run away.
If your dog has ID tags with your phone number on them, anyone who finds them will be able to call you immediately. A microchip is useful if their collar gets lost, as it can be read by any veterinarian or shelter your dog is brought to.
8. Talk to Your Veterinarian About Anxiety Medication
If your dog is very anxious, medication may be the only way to make them comfortable. Talk to your veterinarian about whether this is the right option for you and your pup.
Final Thoughts
While some dogs will always find New Year’s Eve stressful, we hope the tips above can help lower their stress and yours. Remember to prepare ahead of time if you can, as this gives you time to desensitize your pup to loud noises and to ask your veterinarian for help if needed.