New Year's Eve is a time for reflection, celebration and spending time with loved ones, including your dog. Whether you're hosting a lively party, heading out to enjoy the festivities, or spending a cozy evening at home, your dog can join in on the fun. However, while it's a time of excitement, it's essential to keep their safety and well-being in mind. Here’s how to ensure your dog enjoys the evening, too and is comfortable during the celebrations.
Here’s the Tips for a Safe and Fun Celebration:
1. Watch Out for Festive Foods
New Year’s Eve often means indulgent food and drinks, but not all of them are safe for dogs. Although it might be tempting to share your holiday snacks, many foods can be dangerous for your pet. Ingredients like chocolate, grapes and alcohol can be toxic, causing anything from digestive issues to severe health problems. Instead, offer your dog special treats made just for them, or stick to dog-friendly options like carrots, canned pumpkin (without spices), or plain chicken. Always avoid giving your dog anything containing alcohol as it can be dangerous even in small amounts.
2. Keep Decorations Out of Reach
Decorations are a big part of New Year’s Eve celebrations, from sparkling streamers to shiny balloons. Although they enhance the festive atmosphere, these decorations can pose potential risks to your dog. Decorations like ribbons, strings and small ornaments can be a choking hazard or cause digestive blockages if chewed or swallowed. Additionally, balloons that pop can startle your dog and lead to anxiety. If you're hosting a party, be sure to keep decorations high up or in areas that are off-limits to your dog.
3. Manage Doorbells and Guests
New Year’s Eve often brings a stream of guests and with it, the ringing of the doorbell and people entering and exiting. If your dog is prone to excitement or nervousness when the doorbell rings, it's best to keep them in a quiet room away from the entrance. This will help keep your dog from darting outside or becoming stressed by the constant door activity. Breeds like the Basenji or the Saluki, known for their quiet and independent nature, may find this especially helpful to avoid stress during the busy evening.
4. Create a Calm Space Away from Loud Music
While many people enjoy dancing and playing music during their celebrations, loud sounds can be overwhelming for dogs. Some dogs, like the Whippet or Shiba Inu, may be more sensitive to noise. To ensure your dog is comfortable, set up a quiet space away from the party. This area can be equipped with their bed, favorite toys and perhaps a cozy blanket. If your dog is particularly anxious, consider playing some calming music or using a white noise machine to mask any loud sounds.
5. Protect Your Dog from Fireworks
For many, fireworks are a staple of New Year's Eve celebrations, but for dogs, they can be a source of fear and anxiety. The loud booms and flashes of light can be extremely frightening, especially for dogs that are not accustomed to such noise. Breeds like the Australian Shepherd or the Border Collie, which tend to be sensitive to sudden noises, might need extra care. If you’re not planning to stay home, create a quiet, dark space where your dog can relax away from windows and doors. For those who are home, playing an action movie or using soundproofing techniques can help mask the noise.
6. Don’t Forget the Comfort of Your Dog
New Year's Eve celebrations are full of energy, but not every dog enjoys the commotion. While some breeds like the Labrador Retriever or Golden Retriever are generally more social, others, such as the Tibetan Mastiff or the Chinese Crested, may prefer a quieter, more private environment. Regardless of your dog’s personality, ensure they have a safe retreat where they can escape the hustle and bustle of the evening. Providing a familiar space where your dog feels comfortable will help them enjoy the night without becoming overstressed.
7. Offer Special Treats and Toys to Keep Your Dog Engaged
While you enjoy your New Year’s Eve festivities, consider giving your dog something special. Interactive toys, like treat-dispensing puzzles, can help keep your dog entertained and mentally stimulated. You can also treat them to a special dog-friendly snack or meal. Some dogs might appreciate a frozen treat like a dog-safe “pupcake” or a stuffed Kong filled with peanut butter or yogurt. This way, they can join in the fun without feeling left out!
8. Create a New Year’s Eve Tradition for Your Dog
Why not start a fun tradition for your dog that they’ll look forward to each year? You could give them a special New Year’s Eve “paws” party with treats and new toys, or even create a custom New Year’s collar to ring in the occasion. Be sure to snap some pictures to remember the moment. Breeds that enjoy a good routine, such as the Bernese Mountain Dog or the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, may benefit from this predictable celebration, helping them feel secure during what might otherwise be a chaotic night.
9. Be Mindful of Your Dog's Health and Safety
New Year's Eve can sometimes lead to increased stress for dogs due to the noise, changes in routine, or unfamiliar people in the house. It's important to monitor your dog's behavior and ensure that they are not showing signs of distress, such as excessive drooling, shaking, or trying to escape. If you're concerned, you can consult with your veterinarian ahead of time to discuss calming solutions or medications that may help your dog manage anxiety during the celebration.
10. Ensure Proper Identification in Case of Emergencies
With the increase in activity and noise, it's always a good idea to ensure your dog’s identification is up-to-date. Dogs can become scared during fireworks or parties and might run away if they’re spooked. Make sure your dog’s collar has an ID tag with your contact information and consider microchipping them if you haven’t already. Even with the best preparations accidents can happen and having proper identification can make all the difference if your dog gets lost.
Final Thoughts
Not all dogs are built for the noise and excitement of New Year’s Eve parties, but with a little planning, you can make sure your pet has a safe and enjoyable experience. Whether you choose to include them in your celebrations or provide them with a calm space to retreat, the key is being mindful of their comfort and safety. After all, they’re part of the family and they deserve to ring in the new year with joy and peace.