Everyone likes a great New Year’s Eve party, right?

Maybe.

But not so much for our dogs.

Loud music, bright and shiny objects, strange people in our home or on the street, dancing and fireworks might be some of our favorite things…but most likely our pets don’t feel the same way.

This year, take some steps for your dog’s safety and avoid problems that can have lasting effects.

Party Preparation

During the day, try to take the time to take your dog on a long walk and give him some special time with you. Tire him out and make sure he is well exercised.

When Guests Arrive

When guests start to arrive, try to keep your dog away from the activity and safe from guests who may or may not remember to shut the door.  People carrying packages, party trays, or gifts might frighten your dog.  When people are entering with their hands full, it is easy for a dog’s paw to get accidentally stepped on or a tail to get caught, or hit with a bag or box by mistake.

Let The Festivities Begin!

Once the festivities begin, have an area in your home where your dog can curl up and avoid the noise and frenetic activity of the night.

Food Safety

Make sure food that is set out for the party is not at a temptingly low level so that opportunistic pooches can’t pounce or swipe canapes, chocolates, candy, or meal items. Even the most stoic well-behaved dog may dodge the rules in the excitement of guests and you may have guests that feed your dog inappropriate items—like chocolate or sweets. This can lead to upset stomachs, loose stools, or worse.

Responsible Partying

It is never appropriate to give a dog any kind of alcoholic drink or cannabis product. They may access those items themselves however if a careless guest leaves a drink or edible snack in their path.

Music

As the celebration gets going the music may get louder. Those levels may be very uncomfortable for your dog’s sensitive hearing.

Ringing in the New Year

The last event for most new year celebrations are the fireworks, guns, noise makers, or sirens.  These can be the most troublesome for some dogs. Please keep pets indoor in a safe area, away from the noise.  If they have a crate or special bed, make sure that they have access to it. Keep gates and doors closed, and make sure your dog has a collar and ID in case they would inadvertently run outdoors.  Every year many dogs are lost when an unintended escape is made in a crowd.

Other Things To Consider For Your Dog’s Safety

If you have the TV on at a normal or low volume it makes some dogs more comfortable.  If they can be in a separate, familiar room in your home; that is the best option.

If you have a nervous dog, you may consider safe and gentle calming tablets, lavender essential oils, or rescue remedy floral essence.  These are all good options to help keep pets calm, if they are particularly frightened.  If you do decide to use one of these methods, please check on them from time to time during the evening.

Remember, helping your pet by preparing ahead of time, is the way to avoid an unpleasant occurrence that may linger long after the party.

Have fun and keep your dog safe!

Happy New Year from all of us at AZ Dog Sports!!