How can you help your dog on New Year's Eve?

The night that most of us look forward to can be a nightmare for our four-legged friends.Loud fireworks, bright lights, and the smell of burning can be stressful not only for wild animals but also for pets.Now is a good time to think about how to help your dog get through New Year’s Eve.

How to help your dog avoid stress?

An old folk saying goes, “Prevention is better than cure,” and we’d just add that if you have the chance, it’s better to avoid it than to treat it.Is there anywhere in Poland where you can’t hear fireworks??New Year's Eve is probably the loudest night of the year.We have to accept that it is impossible to completely shield a dog from the sound of firecrackers.There is, however, a significant difference between the number and frequency of sounds in the city center, which is celebrating New Year’s Eve in style, and a quiet spot on the outskirts.If you have a choice, stay where you can barely hear the sounds of the New Year's Eve celebrations.

How to Prepare Your Dog for New Year's Eve?

If you notice that your four-legged friend doesn't handle single firecrackers well, let them stay home and wait out the loud midnight celebrations in a safe place.We recommend taking a long walk in the morning, when the loud gunshots are less noticeable.It’s worth keeping in mind that every animal reacts differently.A single bout of stress, such as the fireworks on New Year’s Eve, can cause severe disruptions in a dog’s behavior.Below are a few tips on how to prepare your dog for New Year's Eve?

Music

Although New Year's Eve fireworks are very loud, enclosed spaces significantly dampen the sound.If you notice that your pet reacts to every gunshot, you can try turning on some music or the TV to drown out the sounds coming from outside.

Toys

Get your pet some toys that will keep them occupied and help them relax.The best ones are those that hide a snack inside, such as those with a hole in the middle or flat ones with ridges.Any ideas are welcome—you can make them yourself or buy them ready-made.We recommend using wet dog food or cat food as a filling for the toy.However, dogs that are particularly stressed by New Year’s Eve sometimes lose their appetite.If this condition persists for too long, consult your veterinarian immediately.

A place to rest

Set up a resting spot for your pet where it will feel safe.You can take his favorite blanket or toy and leave it by his bed.If your four-legged friend wants to find shelter somewhere else, let them.Under no circumstances, however, should you force him to stay alone.

Remember that every dog reacts differently to various stimuli.To ensure your pet’s comfort, choose methods that will help them get through New Year’s Eve feeling safe and calm.