Whether you're going to a house party or having a quiet one in, New Year's Eve is a time to celebrate with your loved ones and reminisce about the past year. However it can be a chaotic time of the season for our pets and often makes them feel anxious and nervous.
A new survey by personalised pet brand Yappy.com found that one in four dogs don't like crowds, parties or loud music. To help keep your pooch calm during the festive party season, dog expert and company founder John Smith is sharing his top tips for implementing routines and avoiding sudden noises.
Regular routine
"The best possible thing you can do for your dog on New Year's Eve, is to keep them in a routine as much as possible," John told the Mirror.
"In fact, this goes without saying for the whole festive period. Sticking to your dog's routine, whether that is feeding them at the same time, or taking them on the same walk, will help reduce anxiety as it gives them a sense of familiarity.
"If you're having guests over it may also help to 'tire' them out and rest easy."
Dog-friendly snacks
"We all love a buffet over the festive period, and our dogs certainly enjoy hanging around the buffet table," John explained.
"However, too much buffet food won't be good for your dog.
"To avoid any upset, if you're hosting a party, leave a little section of treats on the buffet table for your dog (labelled of course), or if you're celebrating elsewhere, remember to take a bag of treats for them.
"That way, throughout the night, they won't feel the need to beg and reduce the risk of being fed something that will upset their stomach and become ill."
Sensitive speakers
"Dogs have extremely sensitive ears, and the loud music will most probably unsettle them," John said.
"You can still enjoy a dance with your pooch but try to keep them a safe distance away from the speakers or even better keep them in a different room with some more calming music to distract them."
Firework warning
John continued: "For many years now all pet owners have been aware of the danger of fireworks and unfortunately New Year's Eve is another occasion in the annual calendar where our dogs will become very frightened of the fireworks, or even sparklers, outside.
"It's best to avoid any fireworks if you can or, if you know they are about to be set off, try to remove yourself and your dog and go to a safe place where they can't run away."
Party poppers
"Similar to fireworks, the loud bang of a party popper can distress dogs as it's an unexpected unfamiliar noise that can spook them," John added.
"Not to mention they could choke on the small string too so definitely don't buy them and if you're going elsewhere, kindly ask for them to not be used."
Do you have a dog story to share? Email nia.dalton@reachplc.com.
