As the New Year approaches, we hoomans get excited about spectacular fireworks, glamorous parties, and staying up until midnight. But our precious furbabies often have a much less pawsitive experience. Loud noises, lively gatherings, and changes in routine can all be stressful and overwhelming for dogs. Here’s how you can help your pupper have a pawsome New Year’s Eve!
Preparing for Fireworks Anxiety
From a dog’s perspective, fireworks are just a series of unpredictable, unexplained banging noises and flashing lights. This triggers anxiety in many dogs, leading to excessive barking, stress-induced hiding, or even dangerous escape attempts. To help your dog stay calm and safe throughout the festivities, you’ll need to start preparing ahead of time. Here’s what to do:
- Make sure your pup is microchipped and wearing up-to-date ID tags, just in case they panic and manage to escape.
- Take some time to work on desensitizing your dog to fireworks. Start early, so that you can get several sessions in!
- Set aside time for intensive physical exercise, like a long walk or vigorous play, before the fireworks start; tiring out your dog will keep them calmer.
You can also stock up on some stress-busting items!
Anxiety Vest
Anxiety vests, such as ThunderShirts, are designed to help dogs cope with loud noises. They apply gentle pressure, similar to a hug, to keep your dog feeling safe and calm. Make sure you try the vest on your dog a few times before New Year’s Eve; otherwise, your dog could experience it as yet another scary, unfamiliar source of stress.
⚠️ Leaving your dog alone for more than 2 hours? Skip the anxiety vest; it could irritate your precious pup’s skin!
Special Toys and Treats
Your dog will appreciate positive distractions during the fireworks, so make sure you have their favorite treats on hand! They’ll also welcome the chance to snuggle with a favorite toy or get engrossed in a new enrichment item, like a puzzle feeder.
Essential Oils
Natural oils, such as chamomile and Egyptian geranium, have a calming effect on many dogs. To avoid skin irritation and accidental ingestion, never apply oils directly to your dog. Instead, put them in a diffuser or spray them on out-of-reach surfaces. Since dogs have incredibly sensitive noses, you’ll only need a tiny amount.
⚠️ Some oils are toxic to dogs; always double-check ingredients with your vet!
The most important item to prepare ahead of time? Your Furbo 360° Dog Camera! With the state-of-the-art 1080p Full HD lens and AI-powered Smart Alerts, you’ll be able to monitor your pupper’s mood, whether you’re leaving the room for a few minutes or stepping out for the entire evening. At the first sign of trouble, just use the interactive Real-Time 2-Way Audio and Treat Tossing features to soothe your furbaby with reassuring words and a comforting snack!
Ringing In the New Year At Home
If you and your dog will be home alone all night, it’s easy to keep the environment serene and provide plenty of reassuring cuddles. But what if you’re hosting a festive get-together — which could monopolize your attention and add to your furbaby’s stress?
Plan ahead by designating a quiet, dog-proofed room for your pup to take a break from the party. If possible, choose an area without windows, like a basement; otherwise, cover the windows to keep fireworks out of sight. To shield your dog from stress-inducing noises, play soothing music or white noise. Stock the room with a cozy bed or blankets, to encourage your dog to drift off to dreamland on their normal sleep schedule instead of staying up past midnight with you and your guests. Don’t forget to provide plenty of water, and a selection of toys. And make sure your guests understand that they shouldn’t barge in!
Wondering how your dog’s evening is going? With your Furbo 360° Dog Camera, you can peek at your pup without having to abandon your guests! Thanks to cutting-edge Infrared LED Night Vision, you’ll be able to see exactly what’s going on, no matter how quickly midnight is approaching.
Stepping Out for the Evening
Heading out to an elegant New Year’s Eve soirée? Don’t forget about your furry friend at home! You can still create a calm sanctuary for your dog to relax while they await your return. Leave behind an item that smells like you, such as a shirt or a blanket, to comfort your precious pup. And, if possible, arrange for a trusted friend or pet-sitter to keep your dog company; even if your dog is usually happy to spend time alone, fireworks could trigger a surprise bout of anxiety!
What if you can’t find someone to dog-sit while you’re out celebrating? Your Furbo 360° Dog Camera is here to save the day, so that you can enjoy peace of mind no matter where the evening takes you! If your dog is showing signs of anxiety, like howling or pacing, Furbo Dog Nanny’s advanced Continuous Barking Alerts and Dog Activity Alerts will notify you right away.
Head Into the New Year Paws-First!
As every pawrent knows, dogs make your life brighter during the pawliday season — and all year round. Furbo is here to help you thank your furbaby by showering them with extra love this New Year’s Eve, whether you’re celebrating with a quiet night in, hosting a lively party, or going out on the town. Here’s to a year of wet noses and wagging tails!
Pick up your Furbo 360° Dog Camera for a pawsome New Year’s Eve! 🐶🎉
