Preparing for New Year’s Eve: Fireworks and Pet Safety

New Year’s Eve is a time for celebration, but the loud noises and bright lights of fireworks can be a source of stress for many pets. From anxiety to physical dangers, it’s important to take steps to ensure your furry friends feel safe and secure during the festivities.

In this blog, we’ll share practical tips to help you prepare your pets for New Year’s Eve, so both you and your four-legged companions can enjoy a peaceful transition into the new year.

1. Create a Quiet, Safe Space

Pets often feel safest in a familiar, quiet environment where they can retreat if they become overwhelmed.

• Set Up a Safe Room: Choose a room in your home where your pet can stay during the fireworks. Add their bed, favourite toys, and blankets for comfort.
• Reduce Noise: Close windows and curtains to minimise the sound of fireworks. Playing calming music or turning on a TV can help drown out external noise.
• Encourage Their Choice: Let your pet decide where they feel safest – don’t force them into a confined space if they prefer to stay near you.

2. Use Calming Products

Calming products can help reduce anxiety and keep pets relaxed during noisy celebrations.

• Diffusers and Sprays: Pheromone diffusers or sprays can create a calming atmosphere in the home.
• Calming Wraps: Anxiety wraps or jackets apply gentle pressure, which can help comfort pets during stressful situations.
• Supplements: Calming chews or tablets containing natural ingredients like chamomile or valerian root can help ease anxiety.

3. Keep Pets Indoors

For their safety, ensure all pets are kept indoors during New Year’s Eve celebrations.

• Secure Doors and Windows: Loud noises can startle pets, leading them to bolt or attempt to escape. Make sure all doors and windows are securely closed.
• Update Microchip Details: In case your pet does escape, ensure their microchip details are up to date to increase the chances of being reunited.
• Double-Check ID Tags: Make sure your pet is wearing a secure collar with an updated ID tag.

4. Distract and Entertain

Keeping your pet entertained can help take their focus away from the fireworks.

• Interactive Toys: Treat-dispensing toys and puzzle feeders can keep your pet mentally engaged during the evening.
• Chews and Bones: Long-lasting chews can provide comfort and distraction for dogs during stressful times.

5. Plan Ahead for Walks and Outdoor Time

If you have a dog, plan your walks carefully on New Year’s Eve to avoid the busiest and noisiest times.

• Walk Early: Take your dog out for a walk earlier in the day before the fireworks start. A longer walk can tire them out and reduce anxiety later.
• Bathroom Breaks: Make sure pets have been let outside for bathroom breaks before the celebrations begin.
• Leash for Safety: Always use a secure lead and harness if you need to take your pet outside during the evening.

6. Reassure Your Pets

Sometimes the best comfort for your pet is simply your presence.

• Stay Calm: Pets can pick up on your emotions, so remaining calm and relaxed can help reassure them.
• Offer Comfort: Sit with your pet, offer gentle strokes, and speak to them softly if they’re anxious. However, avoid over-pampering, as it may reinforce nervous behaviour.

Summing Up

New Year’s Eve doesn’t have to be stressful for your pets. By planning ahead, creating a safe and calming environment, and using products designed to reduce anxiety, you can help your furry friends feel secure and protected during the celebrations.

For all your pet-safety needs this festive season, visit Superpet. From calming sprays to interactive toys, we have everything you need to make New Year’s Eve safe and comfortable for your pets.