New Year’s Eve is a time to celebrate fresh beginnings, but for pets, it can be one of the most stressful nights of the year. Fireworks often start before midnight and can last for hours, leaving pets frightened, anxious, and overwhelmed. Finn Hill Animal Hospital has tips for how you can try to make your pets feel safe and supported as you ring in the new year.
Pets That Are Anxious Around Firework Sounds
Dogs and cats have much sharper hearing than humans, so the booming, unpredictable sounds of fireworks are often terrifying. Combine that with flashing lights and the scent of burning powder, and it can trigger a full fight-or-flight response.
Signs of fireworks anxiety in pets include:
- Hiding or trying to escape
- Trembling or pacing
- Barking or whining
- Destructive behavior
- Drooling or panting
- Accidents in the house
Pet Calming Tips for New Year’s Eve
Create a Safe Indoor Retreat
Set up a quiet, secure space where your pet can relax away from windows and noise. Include their bed, a few favorite toys, and soft music or white noise to mask the sound of fireworks. You should familiarize your pet with this room ahead of time so they feel comfortable there.
Keep Pets Indoors
Always bring outdoor pets inside before dusk. Even if they’re normally calm, fireworks can cause a panicked pet to bolt and get lost or injured.
Close Curtains and Muffle Noise
Draw blinds or curtains to reduce light flashes. A TV, radio, or white noise machine can all muffle the sound of fireworks.
Use Calming Aids
Ask your pet’s veterinary team about safe options like anxiety wraps, pheromone diffusers, calming chews, or prescription anti-anxiety medications if your pet struggles every year.
Update ID Tags and Microchips
Fireworks-related runaways can happen during holidays. Make sure your pet’s microchip info is current and that tags are securely fastened and legible.
Avoid Leaving Pets Alone
If possible, stay home with your pet or arrange for someone they trust to be there. Familiar company is often one of the most effective comforts.
What to Avoid with Fireworks and Pets
Never take your dog to a fireworks show. These are often very loud and very crowded. Your canine companion will likely not enjoy themselves and could run away and/or injure themselves or others.
Avoid punishing fearful behavior, but you shouldn’t be overly soothing your pet either. If you keep reassuring your pet and coddling them, they will learn that fireworks are something they should be frightened of.
Have a Calm New Year’s with Your Pet in Kirkland, WA
Your pet’s comfort matters just as much as your celebration. With the right preparation and support, you can help animal companions feel safe during the noisiest night of the year. Finn Hill Animal Hospital has guidance for pets with noise anxiety in Kirkland, including cats and dogs from Redmond, Kirkland, Bothell, and neighboring Washington areas. If your pet struggles with loud noises or New Year’s anxiety, contact us for a consultation at Finn Hill Animal Hospital.