Make New Year celebrations safe to guarantee that your four-legged friends can partake in the joyous moments.
As we eagerly anticipate the dawn of a new year, many of us are busy planning festivities to say farewell to the old and welcome the new. Although we're excited, it's important not to forget our furry companions, who gave us priceless joy throughout the year.
Here are some tips for a pet-friendly New Year celebration.
Create a Pet-Safe Space
The hustle and bustle of New Year's celebrations can be overwhelming not only for you but also for your pets. Loud music, fireworks, and unfamiliar faces might stress them out. To ensure their comfort, create a designated pet-friendly space where they can retreat if the festivities become too much.
Tip: Place their bed, toys, and water bowls in this safe space to give them a familiar and calming environment amidst the chaos.
Pet-Friendly Decorations
When decking the halls for New Year's Eve, consider your pet's safety when choosing decorations. Skip the confetti and go for pet-safe alternatives like colourful ribbons or non-toxic balloons. Steer clear of decorations that can be easily chewed or ingested, as this could pose a risk to your pet's health. This is helpful if you also have kids at home.
Healthy Pet Treats
New Year's celebrations are filled with delicious meals, (clears throat) cholesterol, and your pets can join in on the indulgence. Before the festivities, prepare some pet-friendly treats and make sure that they are free from harmful ingredients like chocolate, onions, and garlic. You can find numerous recipes online for homemade pet treats.
Safety First
In addition to choosing pet-friendly treats, it's also crucial to be mindful of potential hazards that can pose risks to your pets. Keep an eye on alcoholic beverages, as even small amounts can be harmful to animals. Ensure that no human food containing raisins, chocolate, or other toxic substances are accessible to your pets.
Engage in Playtime
While you're busy entertaining guests, don't forget to engage in playtime with your pets. Whether it's a game of fetch, a leisurely walk, or some quality cuddle time, including your furry friends in these activities strengthens the bond between you and ensures they feel loved and included in the festivities.
Note: Happy and engaged pets are less likely to be stressed by the unusual activities taking place around them.
Be Mindful of Noise
Loud noises, such as fireworks and music, are common during New Year's celebrations. These sudden and intense sounds can be distressing for pets, leading to anxiety and fear. To prevent this, consider using noise-cancelling headphones or creating a quiet corner where they can retreat to escape the noise.
Monitoring your pets' behaviour and providing reassurance can also go a long way in keeping them calm during the celebrations.
Here are some signs of a stressed pet to look out for:
- Excessive barking
- Hiding or seeking shelter
- Trembling or shaking
- Pacing or restlessness
- Drooling and panting
- Loss of appetite
- Changes in body language (flattened ears, tucked tail)
- Destructive behaviour
- Aggressive behaviour
- Changes in elimination habits
New Year's Resolutions for Pets
As we set personal resolutions for the new year, why not include some for our pets? Consider resolutions that promote their health and well-being, such as regular exercise, a balanced diet, regular veterinary check-ups, and pet-friendly surroundings, including a cosy bed and easy-to-clean furniture, so you can bond with your little friends without worries.
Ready for a Pet-Friendly New Year?
As the clock strikes midnight, let the celebrations be a shared experience, one that strengthens the bond between you and your beloved pets. Cheers to a pet-friendly New Year!