Status: 28.12.2023, 11:00 a.m.
By: Sophie Kluß
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New Year's Eve can be challenging for pets. Loud bangs and bright lights trigger fears in many animals. Find out how to accompany your pet through the turn of the year.
The turn of the year is just around the corner and many pet owners are already thinking about how they will accompany their darlings through the stressful evening. With these tips, you can help your pet to survive loud bangs and colorful flashes in a relaxed manner.
1. Prepare early for a smooth start
Start preparing in the run-up to New Year's Eve. With a dog, you can go for a long walk during the day and play with him a lot. If the four-legged friend is tired and busy in the evening, he sleeps through the fireworks in the best case. The same applies to cats: extensive play can help to burn off excess energy. You can keep outdoor cats in the house early on and close all cat flaps and ways to escape outside. On the day of New Year's Eve, it can help to maintain the usual daily routine to signal normality to the animal. How to recognize stress in cats.
In the Rheinische Post, behavioural biologist and dog trainer Marie Nitzschner also advises: "Don't let your dog off the leash: Again and again, dogs run away in their panic. Therefore, be sure to keep the dog on a leash around New Year's Eve - i.e. also a few days before and after."
Be sure to keep your pets in the apartment on New Year's Eve. The animals could be frightened outside and run away or injure themselves. (Symbolic image) © agefotostock/Imago
2. What to do during fireworks
During the festivities, silence is the order of the day. Try to behave in a relaxed manner so as not to worry your pet additionally. When anxiety sets in, stay calm to show your dog or cat that there's no need to get excited. Is your dog excited or nervous? Three tips on how to calm him down. Let your dog or cat decide for themselves if they want to hide, and don't force them to interact.
Chewing bones and cat toys
"Chewing releases happiness and calming hormones in dogs and can therefore contribute to relaxation," informs the Südwest Presse. With a large chewing bone, distraction is also provided over a longer period of time.
For cats, their favorite toys, treats or an extensive cuddle session can provide the necessary distraction.
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3. Music or soothing soundscapes
Familiar background noises, such as soft music or a soothing radio program, can help drown out the popping noises and create a relaxing environment. Make sure the volume is comfortable for your pet. In addition, close curtains and blinds to keep the visual stimuli away as much as possible.
4. Create opportunities for retreat and show closeness
Offer your furry companions the usual retreats. Provide water, food and blankets to create a comfortable atmosphere. If the pets want to hide in places that are otherwise off-limits, make an exception on New Year's Eve.
Dogs love to feel closeness to their owners, which is why you should signal presence and affection, especially in stressful situations like this. Be careful with excessive attention, though, as this could give the impression that there is a state of emergency, which you should avoid at all costs. "Consolation is allowed and important, but you should remain calm yourself," advises Südwest Presse.
5. Sedatives and pheromones
Sedatives or special pheromones can have a supportive effect on very anxious animals. Talk to your veterinarian about possible options ahead of time. Such preparations can alleviate anxiety and give your pet a certain serenity.
However, be sure to make an appointment in good time: Some medications take a while to take effect and should therefore be given a while in advance. Read here seven more tips on how to protect your pets from the New Year's Eve madness.