For many dogs, the turn of the year is a difficult and stressful day. In today's blog post, we'll explain why your dog can experience particularly high levels of stress on this day and how to avoid it.
Tip 1: Walk the dog before the fireworks
To spend New Year's Eve with your dog as relaxed as possible, you should bring your evening walk forward. Experience shows that the bangs and crashes often start long before midnight. For this reason, it's advisable to go for a long walk in the afternoon.
Tip 2: Don’t forget the leash and harness
Sudden bangs and crashes can cause your dog to panic and want to flee. To avoid accidents or running away, you should definitely keep your dog on a leash on New Year's Eve.
Tip 3: Be there for your dog and don’t leave him alone
It's not just anxious dogs who shouldn't be left in the care of strangers or home alone on New Year's Eve. Make sure your dog can spend time in his familiar surroundings with his favorite people. Provide him with a sense of security and protection.
Tip 4: Drown out the noise of firecrackers and rockets
Turn up the TV a little louder and close all doors and windows to drown out some of the outside noise. If you have the option to close exterior blinds, lower them. The slightly increased noise level and the shielding from the outside world will reduce the initial shock of a loud bang.
If you have the opportunity, you can also place the dog bed in a quiet corner. However, you should do this a few days before the New Year so your dog can get used to it in a relaxed manner.
Tip 5: Avoid stress or reduce it
Avoid stress in the days leading up to New Year's Eve at all costs. Try to encourage your dog to have a good time with him on New Year's Eve. Provided your dog allows it, massages and long petting can have a stress-relieving effect. Distraction with various toys can also be an effective way to reduce stress.
Some dogs find chewing incredibly relaxing and can use it to relieve stress. Ideally, you should try out different options a few days before New Year's Eve and prepare yourself and your dog for a relaxing New Year's Eve.
Tip 6: Seek advice from a veterinarian or animal trainer
If you have an anxious dog, you should consult your veterinarian or a qualified animal trainer beforehand. They can provide ideal advice and help you prepare your dog for this stressful evening using relaxation techniques.
Tip 7: Escape the fireworks
If all other measures fail, you can always escape with your dog. Several cities in Germany ban fireworks in their city centers. Perhaps you'll head off to celebrate New Year's Eve and enjoy an incredibly peaceful one.
