New Year's Eve is a great time filled with fun, friends, family, music, delicious food, and of course, an impressive fireworks display at midnight. Who wouldn't love that, you might think? Well... unfortunately, many animals, including dogs, don't share the same enthusiasm. It's estimated that 45% of dogs are afraid of fireworks. And while it's normal for a dog to be briefly startled by loud noises, there are also dogs that react with prolonged and intense anxiety to loud sounds like fireworks, thunderstorms, or gunshots. As a result, the transition from the old year to the new one is often a dreaded night for many dog owners.

However, there are still ways to have a fantastic and anxiety-free New Year's Eve with your dog! Here are some tips from Olly & Molly:

Get Enough Exercise

Dogs generally relax better in stressful situations when they are tired. Before New Year's Eve, make time for an extra long walk or jogging session with your four-legged friend. This extra physical activity will ensure that your dog is extra tired on New Year's Eve, potentially allowing them to sleep through the fireworks or at least react less anxiously.

Identification

Let your dog go outside for a bathroom break in the early evening, as dusk sets in. Then, close all windows and doors and keep your beloved pet safe indoors because fireworks often start before midnight. Avoid going outside with your dog during the fireworks unless absolutely necessary. Every year, twice as many pets go missing on New Year's Eve than on a regular day. Running away from noise is rooted in a dog's survival instinct. If a dog goes missing, it's crucial that they have proper identification to quickly reunite them with their owner. In Belgium, every dog must have a microchip and be registered in the central DogID database. In some countries, such as the United Kingdom, it's legally required for a dog to wear an identification tag on their collar with the owner's name and address. Both the microchip and the identification tag need to have up-to-date information.

Stay at Home

Don't leave your dog alone at home on New Year's Eve, especially if you know they are afraid of fireworks. Dogs feel most relaxed and secure in their familiar environment, especially close to their owner(s). Create a safe spot inside the house where as little noise and light flashes from the outside (fireworks, thunder, etc.) can be heard and seen. When the dog feels a bit uncertain or scared, they can retreat there. As an owner, just settle in comfortably with some pillows and a blanket next to your dog at that moment. Your presence is one of the best ways to provide your dog with a sense of security. Background noises like TV or radio can also help mask the scary sounds and distract the dog from what's happening outside. Stay calm yourself, as it promotes calmness in your dog as well. Ignore anxious behavior from your dog and reward calm behavior with, for example, a new toy, a sturdy dog chew, a treat-dispensing toy, etc.

Host a "Dog-Friendly" New Year's Party

If both you and your four-legged companion are social creatures and not having a festive New Year's Eve is not an option for you, then maybe it's a fun idea to host your own "dog-friendly" New Year's party. Limit the company to a handful of friends (with or without their dogs) that your dog is already familiar with.

Book a Stay in a Firework-Free Zone

If you want to spend the transition from the old to the new year in peace and without stress this year, simply book a "dog-friendly" stay in a firework-free zone. This way, you can start the new year happily and stress-free.

Consult Your Veterinarian

If your dog becomes very anxious around fireworks or loud noises, it might be a good idea to talk to your veterinarian about it. The vet can determine whether there's a medical cause for this anxiety behavior or not. Additionally, in extreme cases of anxiety, it may be helpful or necessary to treat the dog with medication.

Use Herbal Supplements

Herbs like Valeriana officinalis, Avena sativa, and Chamomile are known for their calming properties. At Olly & Molly, we understand how heart-wrenching it is to see your beloved pet overwhelmed by fear. Our supplement, Olly & Molly Chill Out, naturally promotes calm behavior in dogs and supports their mental well-being through a balanced blend of plants and herbs.