For many of us, New Year’s Eve is a time for celebration, but for our pets, the loud bangs and bright lights of fireworks can be incredibly stressful. To help your furry friends feel safe and secure this New Year’s Eve, follow these tips to ensure a smooth night for everyone.
Create a Safe Space
Set up a cozy and quiet spot where your pet can retreat if they feel anxious. Use a crate, bed, or favourite blanket in an area away from windows and doors to muffle the sound.
Distract and Entertain
Keep your pet’s mind occupied with toys, treats, or interactive puzzles. The KONG Gyro, available at Woonona Petfoods, is designed to captivate your dog with its irresistible roll and flip action. With its spinning center orb and static outer ring, the KONG Gyro encourages dogs to push, paw, and roll it, dispensing tasty treat rewards along the way. This dynamic toy is perfect for independent play, and you can add your pet's favorite snacks or kibble inside for added fun and extended playtime. Toys like these provide both mental and physical stimulation, helping to keep your dog engaged and calm while having a great time.
Block Out the Noise
To help your pet stay calm during fireworks, it can be beneficial to block out the loud and unsettling noises that cause anxiety. One effective method is to play soft, calming music or turn on the TV at a moderate volume to mask the sounds of the fireworks outside. Many pets find familiar sounds, like the hum of the television or soothing instrumental music, to be comforting and reassuring. You can even find pet-specific playlists created to help reduce anxiety, with sounds like gentle piano music or nature noises designed to have a calming effect on animals. These audio tools can help create a more peaceful atmosphere, providing a sense of security for pets who might otherwise be stressed by loud noises.
Stay Calm and Comforting
During stressful events like fireworks or thunderstorms, your pet will look to you for guidance on how to respond. It’s important to remain calm and composed in these situations, as your pet can pick up on your emotions and body language. If you become anxious or overly worried, your pet may interpret this as a reason to be more fearful. Instead, try to maintain a relaxed demeanor and speak in soothing, reassuring tones to let them know everything is okay. Offering comfort without over-responding will help them understand that there’s no need to panic, and they’ll learn to rely on your calmness as a source of reassurance during stressful moments.
Use Calming Aids
When dealing with a pet’s anxiety, especially during stressful events like fireworks or thunderstorms, calming aids can make a significant difference in their comfort. Natural remedies, such as Vetalogica VitaRapid Tranquil Treats for Dogs, are a fast-acting formula designed to help maintain emotional balance and calmness in dogs. These treats, containing Chamomile and Taurine, are perfect for dogs who find themselves stressed by situations like loud noises, vet visits, or travel. Similarly, PAW Complete Calm Chews provide relief from stress and anxiety, containing Tryptophan and B Vitamins that support your dog's nervous system and general well-being.
For pets who prefer a more physical approach, the ThunderShirt is a proven solution. This anxiety wrap uses a swaddle technique, applying gentle, constant pressure to calm dogs and cats during fireworks, thunderstorms, or any stressful situation. The pressure mimics the comfort of being held, helping to reduce fear and anxiety. If you're unsure which solution is best for your pet, speak with our team at Woonona Petfoods, who can recommend tailored products to suit your pet’s individual needs.
Double-Check Their ID
It’s essential to double-check your pet’s identification details before any event that may cause stress, such as fireworks or storms. Fireworks can be loud and startling, often causing pets to become frightened and run off in search of safety. To ensure that your pet can be quickly identified and safely returned if they get lost, make sure their collar is securely fastened and that their ID tags are visible and legible. Update any contact information on their tags, especially if you’ve moved or changed your phone number recently.
Additionally, it's important to confirm that your pet's microchip details are current. Microchips are a permanent and reliable form of identification, but they only work if the information is up to date in the registry. This extra step can provide peace of mind, knowing that should the worst happen, there’s a better chance of a safe reunion with your pet.
Plan Potty Breaks Early
Planning potty breaks ahead of time is a key step in ensuring your dog stays comfortable and stress-free during fireworks. Taking your dog for a walk earlier in the day, well before the fireworks begin, gives them the opportunity to relieve themselves in a calm environment, reducing the chances of accidents later in the evening. This is especially important for dogs who may become anxious when loud noises begin, as they could become distracted or too frightened to focus on their potty needs during the event. Preparing these steps in advance can help make the night easier for both you and your dog.
Stay Home if Possible
If your pet is particularly anxious or easily frightened by fireworks and other loud noises, it's a good idea to stay home with them during the festivities. Your presence can provide a calming and reassuring influence, helping them feel safe and secure in an environment that might otherwise be overwhelming. If you're unable to stay home, consider asking a trusted friend or family member to look after your pet or arrange a pet-sitting service to provide them with the comfort and companionship they need during the event.
At Woonona Petfoods, we’re here to help you and your pets navigate the New Year’s Eve celebrations. Visit us for calming products, treats, and expert advice to ensure a stress-free night for your furry family members.
Let’s make 2025 a paw-sitive start for everyone!
