Anxiety & Stress in Dogs: How to Help Your Dog Through New Year's Eve

How do I prepare my dog for New Year's Eve?

New Year's Eve can be a real stress test for many dogs, which is why early preparation is crucial.

A long walk before the fireworks

Plan an extensive walk on New Year's Eve – preferably well before the fireworks start. Find a quiet environment, as far away as possible from the hustle and bustle, so that your dog has plenty of opportunity to burn off energy and release any tension that arises. An exhausted dog is more relaxed and less likely to react anxiously when the first fireworks appear in the sky.

Safety first

During the days around New Year's Eve, you should always keep your dog on a leash – especially if he reacts anxiously to loud noises. Make sure he is wearing a well-fitting chest harness to prevent him from accidentally escaping. Even if you are in a supposedly quiet area, sudden bangs or fireworks in the distance can cause your dog to panic. In these situations, the leash provides additional security.

Training

New Year's Eve is just around the corner, and it's worth starting preparations early. Many dog owners make the mistake of leaving it to the last minute. But as with so many things in life, good preparation is the be-all and end-all. However, if you are running out of time for training, you can find 10 last-minute tips for a successful turn of the year here.

Exceptional tips for relaxation on New Year's Eve

In any case, it makes sense to observe your own dog closely and find out if there are certain triggers that cause the dog stress. A stressed dog should be taken seriously and needs loving care.

• Aromatherapy: Essential oils such as lavender, diffused using an aroma diffuser, create a calming atmosphere. Make sure to use diluted oils that are suitable for dogs.
• Soothing massage: gentle, circular movements on tense areas have a relaxing effect and can help to loosen the muscles. A massage with Canna Canis CBD oil can have an additional calming effect.
• Relaxing snacks: soothing treats such as DOG'S LOVE Smart Snacks Chill or relaxing Canna Drops are delicious ways to help your dog.

Which sedatives are suitable for dogs?

Natural, plant-based preparations such as valerian or passion flower drops have proven particularly helpful for many dogs. They are well tolerated and gently calm the nervous system without affecting your dog. In the case of severe anxiety or panic, it may be necessary to resort to medical sedatives. It is best to discuss this with your trusted veterinarian in advance.

How can I help my dog cope with New Year's Eve?

Tip 1: Stay calm

Your behavior also affects your dog's emotions. Show him that everything is fine and stay calm. Avoid punishing your dog for anxious behavior, as this is more likely to increase his anxiety.

Tip 2: Don't leave your dog alone

No matter how much you want to go out and party, your dog should not spend New Year's Eve alone. Your presence will help keep him safe. If you can't be home yourself, make sure your dog is with a trusted person or in a safe environment.

Tip 3: Create a safe environment

The right environment is crucial to minimize noise from outside. Close the curtains, lower the blinds, and turn on the TV or radio to drown out the noise. Soothing music or a white noise machine (my secret tip!) can help your dog to ignore the noise of the fireworks.

Tip 4: Set up a retreat

Every dog needs a place of retreat where they feel safe. This could be a cozy basket or a transport box that offers protection. Create this place a few days before New Year's Eve so that your dog has enough time to get used to this place of retreat.

Tip 5: Play and keep busy

Distraction is a good strategy for avoiding stress. Keep your dog busy with interactive games or chew toys so that he doesn't focus on the noises. Intelligence toys and treats are also a good way to keep him occupied. Sniffer carpet – sniffing is particularly relaxing for dogs and engages large areas of the brain, allowing them to distract themselves and burn off energy in a calm way.

Tip 6: New Year's Eve vacation

If possible, pack your things and escape with your dog to quieter climes. I swear by New Year's Eve vacations in the mountains or in rural areas. There are hardly any fireworks there, and you can enjoy the turn of the year stress-free with your dog. Find accommodation in a natural setting, perhaps in a national park where fireworks are prohibited. For me, there is nothing more relaxing!

Conclusion

Whether you spend New Year's Eve at home or in a quiet vacation home in nature, your efforts to protect your dog from the challenges of fireworks will pay off. With the right preparation, loving care, and, if necessary, appropriate sedatives, you can ensure that your four-legged friend spends the night in safety and peace. Give your dog the attention and care he deserves and enjoy a relaxed transition into the new year together. This will make New Year's Eve a positive experience for both of you, strengthening the bond between you.

Stock up on relaxing treats right now – then you'll be ready for the turn of the year!