Blog: 5 Ways to Prepare Your Pet for New Year’s Eve

New Year’s Eve is a time for celebration, but it can be a challenging evening for our four-legged friends. The loud noises, flashing lights, and unusual activity can be unsettling for pets. With the right preparation, you can ensure your pet feels safe and secure as you ring in the new year. Here are five essential tips to make New Year’s Eve stress-free for your beloved companion.

1. Create a safe space

Pets thrive on familiarity, so designate a quiet, cozy space where they can retreat during the festivities. Equip the area with their favorite blankets, toys, and maybe even a piece of your clothing that carries your scent. Playing calming music or using a white noise machine can also help drown out the sound of fireworks.

2. Desensitize your pet to loud noises

Fireworks are often the biggest stressor for pets on New Year’s Eve. In the weeks leading up to the event, you can help your pet acclimate by playing recordings of fireworks at low volumes while offering treats and positive reinforcement. Gradually increase the volume over time to build their tolerance.

This kind of preparation is especially helpful for dogs and cats who are prone to noise anxiety. Keep training sessions short and positive for the best results.

If your pet tends to wander, or you are looking for extra reassurance of your pet’s safety, it’s also beneficial to ensure they’re wearing proper identification. For added peace of mind, consider a PetLinkGPS. This device makes it easy to locate your pet if they get spooked and run off. A GPS tracker gives you peace of mind that your pet can be located quickly.

3. Keep Them Distracted

Interactive toys and long-lasting chews can keep your pet entertained while festivities are happening. Puzzle toys that release treats, for example, provide mental stimulation and encourage focus.

For dogs, consider frozen Kong toys filled with peanut butter or wet food. Cats might enjoy chasing a laser pointer or batting around a feather wand. Keeping their mind occupied helps reduce anxiety caused by external noises.

4. Avoid Exposure to Stressful Situations

It might be tempting to include your pet in your celebrations, but New Year’s Eve parties can be overwhelming for animals. Loud music, unfamiliar guests, and sudden movements can heighten their anxiety.

If you’re hosting a party, let your guests know to avoid disturbing your pet. Consider keeping your pet in a separate room or using a pet gate to limit their exposure to high-traffic areas. Remember, you should always prioritize their comfort.

5. Schedule a Post-Celebration Check

Once the celebrations are over, take a few moments to check on your pet. Make sure they haven’t ingested any harmful foods, like chocolate or alcohol, or gotten into potentially hazardous decorations like confetti or balloons.

Wrapping Up

Preparing your pet for New Year’s Eve doesn’t have to be a difficult task. With the steps above, you can ensure they feel secure and comfortable as you welcome the new year. From creating a cozy sanctuary to using pet GPS trackers, you can take proactive measures to safeguard their well-being.

A little preparation goes a long way in making New Year’s Eve enjoyable for everyone—including your four-legged family member!