New Year’s Eve is a time of celebration for us, but for our furry friends, the loud bangs and bright flashes of fireworks can be frightening and stressful. At Sparkport Pharmacy, we care about the wellbeing of all family members – including your pets. Here’s our guide to helping your pets stay calm and safe during the festivities.

Why Fireworks Stress Pets

Dogs and cats have much more sensitive hearing than humans, so fireworks sound much louder and more intense to them. The unpredictable nature of the sounds, combined with flashing lights, can trigger anxiety and fear responses. Some pets may try to hide, shake, bark excessively, or even attempt to escape.

Preparing Before the Fireworks Start

  • Create a Safe Haven Set up a quiet, comfortable space in your home where your pet can retreat. This could be their crate, a bedroom, or any area where they feel secure. Make sure they have access to water, their favourite toys, and familiar bedding.
  • Exercise Early Take your dog for a walk earlier in the day, well before the fireworks begin. A tired pet is generally a calmer pet, and they’ll be more likely to rest during the evening.
  • Secure Your Home Check that all windows, doors, and pet doors are closed and locked. Frightened pets often try to bolt, and many pets go missing on New Year’s Eve. Make sure your pet’s ID tags and microchip information are current just in case.

During the Fireworks

  • Stay Home, if possible, stay home with your pet. Your presence provides comfort and reassurance during stressful times.
  • Create Background Noise Turn on the TV, radio, or play calming music at a normal volume. This helps mask the sound of fireworks and creates a more familiar environment.
  • Close Curtains and Blinds Block out the flashing lights by closing all curtains and blinds. This reduces the visual stimulation that can add to your pet’s anxiety.
  • Act Normally While it’s natural to want to comfort your pet, try to act as normally as possible. Over-fussing can sometimes reinforce anxious behaviour. Offer calm reassurance but don’t make a big deal out of the situation.
  • Never Take Them Outside Even if your pet usually seems confident, never take them to a fireworks display or leave them outside during the celebrations.

How Sparkport Pharmacy Can Help

We understand that some pet’s experience severe anxiety during fireworks, which is why we stock a range of stress and calming tablets. These products can help take the edge off your pet’s anxiety and make the evening more bearable for everyone.

Visit us before New Year’s Eve to:

  • Discuss the best calming options for your pet
  • Get advice from our knowledgeable team
  • Stock up on what you need in advance

Don’t wait until the last minute – plan ahead to ensure your pet has the support they need.

When to Seek Professional Help

If your pet shows extreme distress, such as excessive panting, drooling, destructive behaviour, or attempts to escape, contact your veterinarian. They may recommend additional treatments or interventions for severe cases.

Make This New Year Stress-Free

With a little preparation and the right support, you can help your pet get through New Year’s Eve safely and comfortably. Remember, the team at Sparkport Pharmacy is here to help you care for every member of your family.

Visit Sparkport Pharmacy today and let us help you prepare for a calm and Happy New Year with your pets.

Sparkport Pharmacy – Your trusted partner in pet and family care

Contact us for more information about our stress and calming products.