New Year’s Eve and Your Dog
Now that Christmas has moved on, it’s time to give some thought to the upcoming New Year’s Eve celebrations … and your dog. While we humans love the excitement, parties and fireworks, it’s important to realize that not all dogs agree with our enthusiasm!
Last year, we wrote a very detailed post on planning ahead for the New Year’s celebrations in order to help your dog enjoy the time safely and calmly. You can read it here.
This year, we want to focus specifically on fireworks. We are incredibly lucky that our Great Danes actually enjoy fireworks no matter the time of year! They always join us outside on the deck and watch the show over Lake Tahoe. But not all dogs are so placid when it comes to loud noises and bright, unpredictable bursts of light and color.
How does YOUR dog react?
Just like humans, each dog reacts differently to loud noises. (A personal note: after living in a war zone for several years, fireworks were very difficult for me to deal with after returning to the United States. Finally, after many years, I can enjoy them without flinching.)
Remember, your dog’s hearing is ultra-sensitive. According to PetMeds.org:
The frequencies that dogs hear are much higher and lower than what humans can hear. Dogs hear a frequency range of 40 to 60,000 Hz while a human range is between 20 and 20,000 Hz. Because of this, dogs have a difficult time with very loud noises. Sounds that may be acceptable to you can be uncomfortable to a dog.
Is it any wonder that fireworks can rattle even the most tranquil dog?
So, is Your Dog Afraid?
When dogs are afraid, they exhibit the following symptoms:
- Cowering or hiding
- Barking or growling
- Trembling or shaking
- Clinging to their owners
Changes in Energy are Also Important
Another important fact to remember is that all dogs feel energy. Some energy is expressed in frequencies, waves and vibrations; including light and sound. This is why some dogs become overwhelmed with the onslaught of both the sights and sounds of fireworks.
Options for a Sound-Sensitive Dog
The following are suggestions; always discuss the best option with your own veterinarian. (Note: We are not compensated for any of the suggested products below.)
- Wear them out with exercise earlier in the day
- Distract them with play or their favorite toy or bone
- Provide a “safe” place; a quiet room (close the windows and curtains) or crate
- Massage
- Calming Wraps:
- The Anxiety Wrap,ThunderShirt, ZenDog, Storm Defender, etc.
- Play canine-friendly “healing” frequencies or sound therapy
- Wholetones, for people with PTSD, but also helps pet anxiety; or iCalmPet.
- Homeopathic Remedies:
- Aromatherapy/Essential Oils:
- lavender, chamomile, ylang ylang, valerian, valor and vetiver):
- Spray a small amount on your hands and massage your dog (including their chest and paws) or spray some on a bandana and tie loosely around the neck)
- Mist your house, dog beds and favorite hiding spots with an oil/water blend
- lavender, chamomile, ylang ylang, valerian, valor and vetiver):