As the end of the year approaches, many dog owners become increasingly nervous. The reason: banging firecrackers, hissing and howling rockets, and other loud New Year’s Eve fireworks typically instill fear in most dogs.
With good preparation and targeted measures, such as anti-anxiety noise training, New Year’s Eve panic in dogs can be avoided. In addition to clever tips on the right behavior as a dog owner, Bach flowers and recently CBD oil are considered effective aids for alleviating animal anxiety.
Why do dogs fear New Year’s Eve?
You might wonder how it comes to be that most people find fireworks amazing, but dogs usually react panically. The reason lies in the much finer senses that our furry friends possess compared to us: dogs hear significantly louder and more intensely than humans. Even sounds that are inaudible to our ears are perceptible to dogs. Sharp hissing or shrill howling rockets, firecrackers, and other fireworks commotion can seriously stress sensitive dog ears. In addition, the typical smell of burning, which sensitive dog noses perceive even more strongly than we do, can put some dogs into a panic. But how does it manifest when dogs are afraid on New Year’s Eve?
How to recognize if your dog is afraid on New Year’s Eve
When fear rises in your dog at the turn of the year, this can manifest through various signs:
- Your dog appears overall very restless
- He whines plaintively
- Your usually calm dog barks a lot
- He pants heavily
- His entire body trembles
- Your dog tucks his tail, possibly under his belly
- Your dog’s pupils are dilated
- Your dog hides under furniture
- His posture is crouched
- He refuses to eat
- Your dog becomes suddenly unclean
It’s best not to let it get this far. However, to avoid New Year’s anxiety, appropriate preparation is necessary. We’ll explain what this involves below.
6 Tips to Prevent New Year’s Panic in Dogs
Unfortunately, the noise-intensive “firecracker time” is not limited to New Year’s Eve alone. Fireworks are set off days before and after the turn of the year. If you notice that occasional noise frightens your dog, as his pack leader, you need to show strength and be a role model. Of course, you can comfort him and take care of him when he is scared and seeks refuge with you.
1. Relaxed Owner – Relaxed Dog
If your dog is tense and anxious, consciously remain calm and composed. This relaxed atmosphere can be transmitted to your pet and alleviate his fear. The four-legged friend realizes that the situation is not as threatening as he perceives it. If your dog still wants to withdraw, let him do so and offer him various options. For example, he might be looking for a safe spot under the couch, want to retreat to the quiet basement, or shield himself under a blanket.
2. Well-Planned Walks
- Especially in the days around New Year’s Eve, keep your dog on a leash for safety and secure him well.
- Choose walking times and locations that are largely free of loud noises. Parks, forests, or fields, for example, are often suitable, but it also depends on your location.
- Be cautious with open doors or garden gates: Even a previously fearless dog could suddenly get scared and flee in panic if a firecracker goes off nearby. In such a case, dog liability insurance is essential for you as a dog owner. This is the only way you are protected against damage claims in the event of an accident.
3. Do Not Leave the Dog Alone on New Year’s Eve
When the noise really kicks in on New Year’s Eve, your dog should never be left alone at home! If possible, lower the blinds to reduce external stimuli such as sounds or flashes of light from fireworks. Turn on the radio or TV to create distraction.
Engage your furry friend with their favorite game to divert their attention. If you are demonstratively in a good mood and generously provide good food, there is a high probability that your dog will weather the fireworks well and not develop any fears.
Even if your dog doesn’t seem to mind, don’t let him out on the street during the fireworks. There, he could be hit by a stray firecracker or playfully snap at them.
4. Bach Flowers, CBD Oil, and More
If your dog reacts particularly anxiously to the fireworks and all games, treats, and retreat options have no effect, you can consider gently acting, natural calming agents in consultation with the vet. Bach flowers, for example, could be suitable. These three Bach flowers are believed to work well for anxiety, ideally starting 2 to 3 weeks before New Year’s Eve:
- Mimulus (Monkey Flower): For dogs that experience anxiety in specific situations or with certain objects.
- Aspen (Aspen Tree): Helps animals that feel vague fear, often without a real reason.
- Rock Rose: Particularly suitable for dogs with extreme fears in specific situations.
Ideally, a holistic practitioner familiar with your dog should create the mixture. However, please note that, despite positive testimonials from dog owners, there are no scientifically proven studies on the efficacy of Bach flowers. Administering Bach flowers to your dog should never replace a visit to the vet.
This also applies to CBD oil, which can be added to dog food as recommended by the manufacturer. Thanks to its natural ingredients derived from the hemp plant, CBD oil is considered not only calming for humans but is also believed to contribute to the well-being and relaxation of stressed four-legged friends. Note that CBD oil does not have intoxicating effects. The World Health Organization (WHO) has classified CBD as safe for humans and animals. Not every dog reacts to CBD oil, but the experiences of many dog owners so far have been positive.
Every dog owner should decide for themselves whether attempting alternative healing methods for their dog makes sense or not.
If your dog does not respond to these natural remedies, an alternative is the administration of medication. Be sure to consult your vet for advice. They can assess whether and which medications are sensible or necessary.
Relaxation massages can also be a good remedy for New Year’s stress in dogs. You may have heard of the so-called Tellington Touch. This is a massage technique that not only strengthens the bond between humans and dogs but can also:
- Relieve pain
- Release tension
- Alleviate touch aversions
- Change unwanted behaviors and habits
- Serve relaxation purposes.
Perhaps worth a try?
Whether assistance for panic attacks, injuries, or in case of illness: a dog health insurance is always there for you and your four-legged friend. It ensures the necessary help and treatment for your dog and protects you from expensive veterinary costs at the same time.
5. Noise Training
Ideally, you should start noise training with your puppy. A common mistake that many puppy owners make is comforting the little furball when it gets scared, instead of ignoring it. The correct approach is to pay the pup no further attention so that it learns that nothing bad happens when the garbage truck loudly empties the bins or when a neighbor loudly drops a box in the stairwell. Over time, the dog will perceive these noises as commonplace and remain completely calm.
Noises as the Key:
When it comes to the special commotion on New Year’s Eve, it’s time to step up your game. In the weeks leading up to New Year’s Eve, you should begin preparing your dog for the fireworks. There are many online sources for noises to slowly acclimate your dog to unpleasant sounds, such as MP3 downloads or YouTube videos. However, you should start early, preferably several weeks before New Year’s Eve.
Here’s how to proceed:
- Play the sounds to your four-legged friend at the beginning very softly and gradually increase the volume.
- This way, your dog will get used not only to the New Year’s Eve firework noises but also to the sounds of a high-speed train, an airplane, a leaf blower, or a baby’s cry.
- While playing the sounds, continue with your normal activities, acting as if nothing is wrong.
- This way, your furry friend will realize that there is no danger associated with these noises.
6. Alternative: New Year’s Eve Vacation with Your Dog
If you follow the tips described, New Year’s Eve stress for your dog should not be an issue. However, if your pet is already too old or extremely anxious, there is another solution: spare it the torment and spend the New Year’s Eve away from the fireworks.
