Keeping Your Dog Safe and Happy on New Year’s Eve

Once the Christmas celebrations wind down, attention turns to the exciting but often stressful New Year’s Eve festivities. For many dogs, the noise and change in routine can cause anxiety and distress, particularly with fireworks often starting days before the 31st and continuing into the new year. In this article, you will find current expert advice on keeping your dog safe, comfortable and calm during New Year’s Eve celebrations.

1. Who is in Charge?

Appoint a responsible family member as the dog’s main caregiver throughout the festive period, including New Year’s Eve. This person should manage feeding times, walks and general care, ensuring no one offers food or treats without their knowledge. This helps maintain routine and prevents accidental feeding of harmful items.

2. Maintain Normal Routine

Dogs thrive on routine, so try to keep feeding, walking and sleeping schedules as close to normal as possible. Disruptions can increase stress, so aim to exercise your dog regularly and keep meal times consistent. This sense of familiarity helps reduce anxiety during busy celebratory periods.

3. Adjust Walks to Avoid Fireworks

Keep walks consistent but plan timing carefully. Fireworks can start unexpectedly late in the evening or after dark. Adjust your dog's walking schedule gradually in the days leading up to New Year's Eve so they can safely get exercise without risk of being startled. Always use a lead unless you're in a secure, enclosed space, to prevent your dog from running off if scared.

4. Manage Firework Stress

Fireworks are one of the biggest stressors for dogs during New Year celebrations. Ideally, begin desensitising your dog to loud noises well in advance, but if that isn’t possible, create a safe environment during the celebrations. This can include:

• Setting up a safe, quiet space like a crate or a quiet room with familiar bedding and toys where your dog can retreat.
• Using calming aids such as dog-appeasing pheromone (DAP) diffusers or collars.
• Playing white noise, calming music or leaving the TV on to mask outside sounds.
• Closing curtains to reduce visual stimuli.
• Avoiding fussing or reinforcing anxious behaviour; instead, act calm and normal to reassure your dog.

5. Managing Parties and Guests

New Year’s parties can be exciting but also overwhelming for your dog. Monitor your dog’s reactions closely. If they become overstimulated, place them in a quiet room away from the guests and check on them periodically. Teach your guests to respect your dog’s space and not to disturb them when they retreat.

6. Safety Precautions

Keep your dog safe by ensuring no one feeds them inappropriate party foods or treats. Ban any fireworks at your event to prevent accidents and ask neighbours to inform you in advance if they plan to set off fireworks. When letting your dog out to toilet after dark, accompany them to provide security and prevent them from bolting if startled.

Always have a designated adult sober and alert to look after your dog during the celebrations. This person keeps an eye on the dog’s wellbeing and can respond quickly if needed.

7. Use Identification and Microchipping

New Year’s Eve can cause dogs to become frightened and run away. Ensure your dog wears a collar with an up-to-date ID tag, and consider microchipping with current contact details. This significantly increases the chances of a safe reunion if your dog escapes.

8. Exercise Your Dog Before Events

Give your dog plenty of exercises earlier in the day to tire them out. A tired dog is typically less anxious and may cope better with the evening’s noises and excitement.

9. Consider Anxiety Aids for Severe Cases

For dogs that are highly anxious or have a history of severe fear reactions, tools such as anxiety wraps (e.g., ThunderShirt) or vet-prescribed medication can provide relief. Consult your vet well before New Year’s Eve to discuss options and allow time for any medications to take effect.

Conclusion

New Year’s Eve can be a challenging time for dogs, but with thoughtful planning and a calm approach, you can help your pet feel safe and happy. Maintaining routine, providing a quiet retreat, supervising closely, and reducing exposure to loud noises are key steps. For dogs prone to anxiety, starting desensitisation early and consulting your vet for additional support can make a significant difference. By combining these strategies, you can welcome the new year together in a comforting and secure way.

For those looking for the right dog to bring into their family, always choose reputable breeders or consider adopting a dog that needs a loving home. Responsible ownership helps ensure a happy life for both you and your canine companion.