The end of the year is approaching and that comes with champagne, oliebollen and, of course, fireworks! However, fireworks are a huge stressor for animals. Research among dog owners shows that over 65% of dogs hide when hearing fireworks. To help animals through the New Year, you can apply the tips below. Hopefully this will ease the stress levels of our dear dogs and cats.
1. Be mindful of daytime fireworks
Walk your dog a little longer during the day, unless there are already huge bangs during the day. In that case, it is better to take a short walk. Walk the last round preferably before 9 p.m. and keep your dog on a leash. This is because the bangs may startle him and make him run away. Do not leave a cat with fireworks anxiety outside on New Year's Eve, but provide a safe environment in the house.
2. Never leave an anxious pet alone
Stay home if your pet is fearful of fireworks. Leaving them alone can have unpleasant and lasting consequences. If you really can't be home, make sure there is a trusted person who can babysit. For example, enlist his regular babysitter or a family member/acquaintance.
3. Close all curtains and close windows
Close all curtains when fireworks are set off outside. The lights are out of place for an animal and increase stress. Close windows to muffle all outside noises.
4. Provide distractions
Distraction reduces stress. Give your dog or cat something to chew and entertain them with fun dog or cat toys. Your pet will become sleepier in the evening as a result. The fun distraction is note linked to the fireworks and provides positive stimuli. You are conditioning your pet as it were. Tip: start a little earlier fireworks training!
5. Create a safe and quiet place for your pet
Let your pet choose a quiet place to lie down. In that spot, he will feel most familiar. Give your pet a good stroke on his head so he feels safe. Put his familiar cuddly toy or toy with him.
6. Stay calm and behave as always
Pets are very focused on their owner, especially in fearful situations. As long as you remain calm and supportive of your dog or cat, this will ease the fear a little. Otherwise, behave as always. Pets are used to your routines. When throwing these routines overboard, they become confused.
7. Don't punish your pet
Stress may cause pets to react differently. For example, it is not strange that they suddenly do their needs in the house, or they want to run away. Don't punish your pet. Be kind and give extra attention by cuddling them more, provided your pet allows it, of course. There's a saying for a reason: "a cornered cat makes funny jumps. So handle startle reactions with care.
8. Put on calm music
To muffle the sound of fireworks, quiet background music can help. Set the music to medium volume and stick to a quiet music genre, such as classical music. Spotify has special music lists for dogs and cats!
Does your pet remain extremely fearful of fireworks? If so, it is important to seek appropriate help for it. Fireworks anxiety can have lasting consequences. Our advice is to contact your veterinarian or a pet behaviorist.
English 
Nederlands