New Year’s Eve: easing fear in pets

In short: Bangs and flashes of light on New Year’s Eve frighten and stress many dogs, cats and small animals. With good preparation, a safe retreat and calm, the night can be made much more bearable for them.

In more detail: Animals often hear sounds more intensely than people and cannot make sense of their cause. If a pet has a strong fear of noise, it is worth talking to the vet about the options weeks in advance.

In detail

• Signs of fear: Trembling, panting, hiding, restlessness, barking or soiling can indicate severe fear.
• Create a retreat: A darkened, quiet room with a familiar blanket or den provides security; windows and shutters should be closed.
• Prevent escapes: On New Year’s Eve and the days around it, only walk dogs securely, ideally with a well-fitting harness and lead, as frightened animals often run off in panic.
• Keep outdoor cats inside: Cats that go outdoors should be brought into the house in good time before dark.
• Protect small animals: Rabbits or guinea pigs from outdoor enclosures can temporarily move into a quiet, sheltered room, avoiding sudden changes in temperature.
• Stay calm: A relaxed attitude in people rubs off on the animal; closeness can be offered but should not be forced.
• Mask the noise: Quiet music or a television in the background can muffle the bangs a little.
• Identification: A microchipped and registered animal and a tag on the collar increase the chance of getting a lost pet back.
• Veterinary advice: Only use calming products or long-term training against noise fear after consulting the vet, and never give medicines meant for people (katzen-verhalten-verstehen, haustier-gesundheit-impfen-entwurmen-tierarzt).