7 Ways to Calm Dogs and Cats During New Year’s Eve Fireworks

Before diving into the tips, it's essential to understand ‘why are dogs scared of fireworks?’ or ‘why cats get anxious during fireworks?’. Pets have heightened senses, and the sudden, loud noises produced by fireworks can trigger a fight-or-flight response. Additionally, the flashing lights can be disorienting for them. It's not uncommon for pets to exhibit signs of stress, such as trembling, excessive panting, hiding or even attempting to escape.

Now that you know ‘Why are dogs afraid of fireworks?’ or ‘What makes cats go crazy during celebratory fireworks?’, it’s time to take the right steps to ensure your furry companions can have a great experience on New Year’s Eve. Read on to find out 7 practical ways in which you can keep your pets calm during fireworks and celebrations this New Year’s Eve.

Create a Safe Space

One effective way to ease your pet's anxiety is to create a safe and comfortable space for them to retreat to. Create a sound barrier to muffle the noise of fireworks. Wondering how to block out firework noise for dogs and cats? Simply close windows and curtains to minimise exposure to bright flashes and reduce the intensity of sound. Equip the space with their favourite toys, blankets and bedding to make it a cosy space. Turn on soothing background music to provide a continuous, calming surrounding. The combination of visual and auditory barriers can significantly reduce the startling effects of firework noises for dogs and cats. Encourage them to spend time in this area leading up to the New Year's Eve festivities, so it becomes a familiar and reassuring environment for them.

Get Them Slowly Accustomed

In the days leading up to New Year's Eve, you can consider exposing your pets to recorded fireworks sounds at a low volume. Gradually increase the volume of the firework sounds for dogs and cats over time, allowing them to get accustomed to the noise. This technique is known as desensitisation. It can help reduce the impact of sudden loud noises on your cat or dog scared of fireworks on the actual night of the celebration.

Provide Distractions

Engage your pets with activities and toys that capture their attention and keep them distracted from the sounds of fireworks and celebrations. Puzzle toys filled with treats, interactive feeders or a new chew toy can divert their focus from the outside sounds and lights of fireworks. By keeping them mentally stimulated, you'll help alleviate anxiety and create a positive association with the New Year's Eve experience.

A unique way to manage the fear of animals from firecrackers and noises is to get them exhausted before the commotion begins. Help your pets release excess energy by engaging in a vigorous play or exercise session earlier in the day. A tired pet is more likely to be relaxed and less reactive to external stimuli like fireworks sounds on New Year’s Eve. Take your dog for an extended walk, play fetch in the backyard or engage your furry friend in interactive play with their favourite toys. Before engaging them in outdoor activities, you can use a moisturising balma to protect their tender paws and nose from winter dryness. Physical activity can contribute to a sense of tiredness, making it easier for your pet to feel sleepy or calm.moisturising balm

Maintain a Calm Demeanour

Firework sounds and flashes can be a phobia for animals, but most humans enjoy the same without getting affected. The good thing is that pets are incredibly perceptive and can pick up on their owners' emotions. If you remain calm and composed during fireworks, your pet is more likely to follow suit. Reassure them with soothing words, offer gentle pats or spend quality time with them. Your presence can be comforting, and by maintaining a calm demeanour, you can relax your pets and ease cat or dog fireworks anxiety during the noisy celebrations outside.

Consult a Veterinarian

If you have tried many ways but still finding it hard to figure out how to help your dog traumatised by fireworks, you can consult with your veterinarian. They can offer professional advice tailored to the specific needs of your pet. They may suggest medication, calming supplements or alternative therapies to help your pet manage anxiety. Your veterinarian can also guide you in choosing the most appropriate and effective solutions for your pet's well-being.

Use Calming Products

Veterinarians often recommend using products that can have a relaxing effect on your anxious pet. There are various products specifically designed to soothe anxious pets during unfamiliar situations or in noisy environments. Calming drops, vests and diffusers infused with pheromones can create a relaxing atmosphere. Consider using these products to help your pets calm down and give them a feeling of security.

As we usher in the New Year, let's make it a joyous occasion for every member of our family, including the furry ones. Now that you have practical ideas on how to calm dogs during fireworks or cats during festivities, you can try some of the above-mentioned ways and find out which one(s) works best for your pet. By understanding and addressing the anxiety that fireworks can cause in pets, we can take proactive steps to create a calm and comforting environment for them. Cheers to a happy and pet-friendly celebration this New Year!