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5 Things You MUST Do Before New Year's Eve If You Have a Dog (No. 3 Could Save a Life)

New Year is a celebration for people, but a real test for your dog The dog is hiding under the blanket.

Every year, veterinary clinics receive a record number of calls during New Year's Eve. Fireworks, cold and chaos can cause serious problems for your four-legged friend. Here are 5 things you MUST do to keep your dog safe.

1. Create a safe "bunker" at home Safe place for a dog

When the fireworks start, your dog will look for the safest place. Prepare it in advance:

  • Choose the quietest room in the house (away from windows)
  • Cover windows with thicker curtains to reduce noise and light glare.
  • Prepare a soft bed or cage with favorite toys
  • Turn on quiet music or white noise to drown out the sounds of explosions
  • Leave fresh water and favorite treats

Important: Never force your dog to go to this place – he should choose when to hide there.

2. Adjust the timing of your walks Dog in winter clothes

Many people start setting off fireworks a few days before New Year's. Here's how to keep your dog safe:

  • Take your dog for a walk EARLY in the morning (before 8-9 am) and EARLY in the evening (before 4-5 pm)
  • Always use a short leash – a frightened dog may suddenly run away
  • Check that the collar is securely fastened (frightened dogs may slip off)
  • If possible, avoid open spaces and walk in quiet places.

Tip: On December 31, take your last walk no later than 3-4 p.m., as the fireworks can start at any time.

3. Prepare an EVACUATION plan (IT COULD SAVE A LIFE!) The owner calms the dog down.

This is the most important point that many owners ignore. Statistics show that 30% more dogs go missing during the New Year than usual.

What YOU NEED to do NOW:

  • Check if your dog is microchipped and if the contact details are up to date
  • Attach a tag with your phone number to your collar
  • Take a recent photo of your dog from all sides (it makes it easier to find if it escapes)
  • Save the numbers of the nearest veterinary clinics that are open 24/7 in your phone.
  • Have sedatives ready (consult your vet IN ADVANCE!)
  • Close all doors and gates – a scared dog can escape through any gap.

IMPORTANT: If your dog has a severe phobia of fireworks, talk to your vet about sedatives at least 2 weeks before New Year's Eve. Some medications must be started in advance!

4. Protect your dog from the cold Paw care

At the end of December, temperatures can drop to -20°C. Not all dogs tolerate the cold equally well:

For dogs that NEED clothes:

  • For small breed dogs (Chihuahua, Yorkshire Terrier, Toy Terrier)
  • For short-haired dogs (greyhound, whippet, pincher)
  • For older dogs (over 8-10 years old)
  • For dogs with health problems
  • For puppies up to 6 months old

Signs of a cold to look out for:

  • Tremor
  • Paw lift
  • Slow movement or stopping
  • Curled up body
  • Squealing or restlessness

Paw protection: Salt and chemicals spread on the streets in winter can burn your dog's paws. Use special paw balm or booties.

5. Be there and stay calm

Your behavior directly affects your dog's emotional state:

  • DO: Act normally, speak in a calm tone, let the dog hide wherever it wants
  • DO: Offer favorite toys or chew toys to help distract your child.
  • DO: If your dog is looking for your attention, calmly pet him.
  • DON'T: Make your dog go outside during fireworks
  • DON'T: Punish for fearful behavior
  • DON'T: Leave your dog home alone past midnight
  • DON'T: Overdo it with reassurance – it can intensify the fear

Additional tips

Calming supplements: There are natural calming supplements with melatonin, CBD oil, or valerian that can help reduce stress. Start giving them 3-5 days before New Year's.

Pheromone diffusers: Products like Adaptil emit calming pheromones that help dogs feel safer.

Thunder shirt: Special "hugging" clothing that creates a sense of pressure and calms anxious dogs.

What to do if the dog is still very scared?

If you notice these symptoms, contact your veterinarian immediately:

  • Heavy, rapid breathing for more than 30 minutes
  • Salivation, vomiting
  • Attempting to escape and getting hurt
  • Complete apathy or, conversely, hyperactivity
  • Urinating or defecating out of fear

Conclusion

New Year's Eve can be tough on your dog, but with the right preparation, you can significantly reduce his stress. Start preparing NOW - don't wait until the last minute!

Remember: Your dog trusts you and expects protection. Be the owner your pet deserves.

We wish you and your four-legged friend a peaceful and safe New Year!

Is your dog afraid of fireworks? Share your experiences in the comments!

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