In South Africa, New Year celebrations can cause our dogs severe anxiety. South Africa’s New Year celebrations are renowned for their vibrancy—fireworks paint the night sky, music drifts through the air, and gatherings are filled with laughter. For people, it’s a magical time to welcome fresh beginnings.
For dogs, it’s often the opposite. The noise, flashes of light, and chaos of celebrations can overwhelm them, transforming a joyous occasion into a stressful ordeal. Let’s explore the causes and what we can do to help dogs with anxiety during the South African New Year.
Why Fireworks Are a Trigger for Anxiety
Dogs experience the world on a completely different sensory level. While fireworks might amaze humans, the sudden, unpredictable explosions of sound and light can feel terrifying to a dog.
Their heightened hearing amplifies every bang and whistle, turning what’s celebratory for us into something threatening for them. The strange smells and vibrations that fireworks create make it easy to understand why many dogs panic.
It’s Not Just Fireworks that Trigger Dogs with Anxiety During South African New Year: Other Stressors to Consider
Beyond the fireworks, the festivities themselves can cause distress. A home suddenly filled with unfamiliar guests, late-night activity, and disrupted routines contributes to an unpredictable and stressful environment for dogs.
They find this unpredictability hardest to handle. Dogs thrive on routine, and the upheaval of New Year’s can leave them feeling confused and insecure.
Spotting the Signs of Stress in Dogs
Dogs communicate their anxiety in various ways. Some physical signs include trembling, excessive panting, or pacing. Others may bark excessively, hide under furniture, or even exhibit destructive behaviours like chewing or scratching at doors.
More concerning is when a dog tries to escape by digging under fences or bolting through open doors. These behaviours aren’t “bad manners” or disobedience—they’re signs your dog is overwhelmed and needs help.
Creating a Safe Space
The best thing you can do for your dog is create a secure environment. Set up a quiet, comfortable area in your home—a bedroom or an isolated corner works well. Add familiar items like their bed or blanket to make the space inviting. You can also include toys or chews to help distract them from outside noise.
Additionally, you can block visual stimulation by drawing curtains or blinds. You can also try calming music or white noise to drown out external sounds. If your dog is crate-trained, their crate can become its haven during this time.
Using Natural Calming Aids
Some dogs benefit from natural calming aids. Vondi’s CBD oil, for example, is specifically formulated to ease anxiety in dogs without sedating them. Anxiety wraps provide gentle pressure around a dog’s body and can be calming.
Pheromone diffusers are another option—they release synthetic versions of the comforting scent mother dogs produce to calm their puppies. Be sure to introduce these aids well so your dog can adjust to them before the celebrations begin.
The Power of Routine
Maintaining your dog’s routine can help it feel grounded even amid the chaos. Feed them at the usual time, take them for regular walks, and carve out moments for play.
These small consistencies act as anchors in an otherwise unpredictable day. Your calm, reassuring presence during the celebrations will also help your dog feel safe. If they seek comfort, be there for them—but don’t punish or scold behaviours that stem from fear, as it will only worsen their anxiety.
Preparing for Severe Anxiety
If your dog has a history of severe anxiety during New Year’s, it’s wise to plan. Speak with your veterinarian about possible anti-anxiety medications or strategies specific to your dog’s needs.
As an added precaution, ensure your dog is microchipped and wearing a collar with updated identification tags. If they escape, these measures significantly improve the chances of a safe reunion.
FAQs: Helping Dogs During South Africa’s New Year Celebrations
Why are dogs so scared of fireworks?
Dogs have highly sensitive hearing, allowing them to pick up on sounds we may barely notice. The sudden, unpredictable bangs and whistling noises of fireworks can overwhelm them. Coupled with bright flashes of light, unusual vibrations, and the smell of explosives, the experience can feel threatening and confusing to dogs.
How do I know if my dog is anxious or scared?
Signs of anxiety in dogs include trembling, excessive panting, pacing, barking more than usual, hiding, and destructive behaviours like chewing or scratching. Some dogs may try to escape by bolting out of the house or digging under fences. Observing your dog’s behaviour closely during stressful times is key to identifying discomfort.
What can I do to calm my dog during New Year’s fireworks?
Creating a calm, safe space in your home is essential. Find a quiet room or area where your dog can retreat, and make it comfortable with their bed, blanket, toys, or chews. Block out external stimuli by drawing the curtains and playing calming music or white noise. For additional support, consider natural calming aids such as CBD oil, anxiety wraps, or pheromone diffusers.
Can I use CBD oil to help my dog’s anxiety?
Yes, CBD oil formulated for pets, such as Vondi’s CBD oil, can help reduce anxiety in dogs without causing sedation. It’s a natural remedy that works by promoting relaxation and reducing stress. Always follow the recommended dosage for your dog’s weight and size, and consult your veterinarian if unsure.
Do anxiety wraps work for dogs?
Anxiety wraps, such as ThunderShirts, apply gentle, constant pressure to a dog’s body, which can help soothe their nerves. This method mimics the comfort of being swaddled, much like a baby, and has proven effective for many dogs experiencing anxiety.
Can I leave my dog alone during New Year’s celebrations?
Leaving your dog alone during such a stressful time is not ideal. Your presence is reassuring to your dog; they may feel safer knowing you’re nearby. If you must step out, ensure they have a secure, calming environment and that someone checks in on them regularly.
Should I give my dog medication for severe anxiety?
CBD products are proven as an effective treatment for mild to moderate anxiety in dogs, but for dogs with severe anxiety, medication prescribed by a veterinarian can be an effective solution. Anti-anxiety medication can help your dog cope during stressful events like New Year’s fireworks. Discuss your dog’s needs with your vet to determine the best action.
How can I prepare my dog for fireworks in advance?
Start by introducing calming aids, such as CBD oil or anxiety wraps, a few days before New Year’s so your dog can adjust. Expose them to low-level recordings of fireworks to desensitise them gradually. Practice creating a calming environment and reinforcing their safe space before the celebrations.
Is it safe to take my dog outside during New Year’s fireworks?
Taking your dog outside during fireworks isn’t recommended. The loud noises and bright lights can trigger a flight response, causing your dog to try and escape. Even the most well-trained dogs may act unpredictably when scared, so it’s best to keep them indoors in a secure environment.
What should I do if my dog runs away during New Year’s celebrations?
Ensure your dog wears a collar with an updated ID tag and is microchipped before New Year’s. If they escape, notify local shelters, veterinarians, and community groups immediately. Share clear photos and information about your dog on social media to help others assist in the search.
Can routine help reduce my dog’s anxiety during New Year’s?
Yes, maintaining your dog’s routine can offer a sense of stability amidst the chaos. Stick to their normal feeding, walking, and playtimes. These predictable patterns help your dog feel grounded and less stressed during disruption.
How do pheromone diffusers help dogs with anxiety?
Pheromone diffusers mimic the natural calming scent produced by mother dogs to comfort their puppies. These synthetic pheromones create a reassuring atmosphere for dogs of all ages, reducing their anxiety in stressful situations like New Year’s celebrations.
Why do some dogs react differently to New Year’s than others?
Each dog has a unique temperament, history, and tolerance for stress. Some dogs may be naturally more anxious, while others are less sensitive to noise and environmental changes. Past experiences, such as trauma or exposure to loud noises, can also influence a dog’s reaction.
What should I avoid doing when my dog is anxious?
Avoid scolding or punishing your dog for anxious behaviours, as this can increase their fear and confusion. Don’t force them to face their fears, such as dragging them outside during fireworks. Instead, focus on providing comfort and creating a calm environment.
Can music help dogs during fireworks?
Yes, soothing music or white noise can help mask the sound of fireworks and create a more relaxing environment for your dog. Classical music, in particular, is known for its calming effects on dogs. There are also playlists and apps designed specifically to help reduce pet anxiety.
Are there any specific breeds that are more prone to noise anxiety?
While noise anxiety can affect any breed, certain breeds, such as Border Collies, German Shepherds, and Labrador Retrievers, are more sensitive to noise due to their heightened alertness. However, anxiety levels vary greatly from dog to dog.
What’s the best way to comfort a dog during fireworks?
The best way to comfort your dog is to stay calm and reassuring. Let them come to you for comfort, but don’t force attention if they prefer to hide. Use a soothing voice, provide their favourite items, and sit with them in their safe space to help them feel secure.
Can I train my dog to be less afraid of fireworks?
Yes, desensitisation training can help reduce a dog’s fear of fireworks over time. Play low-level recordings of fireworks and gradually increase the volume while rewarding calm behaviour. That should be done well before New Year’s celebrations to allow sufficient time for progress.
How long does it take for a dog to calm down after fireworks?
That varies depending on the dog and the steps to reduce their anxiety. Some dogs may calm down within minutes after the noise stops, while others might take hours or even need a full day to recover. Providing comfort and maintaining a calm environment can speed up the process.
What’s the most important thing I can do for my dog during New Year’s?
The most important thing is to be proactive. Understand your dog’s triggers, prepare a safe space, and use tools like calming aids or routine maintenance to minimise their stress. Your presence and reassurance are invaluable in helping them feel secure during this overwhelming time.
A Stress-Free New Year for You and Your Dog
New Year’s doesn’t have to be stressful for your dog. By understanding their triggers and taking steps to reduce their anxiety, you can ensure they feel safe and supported. This is more than just a courtesy—it’s a responsibility. After all, dogs are family, and their well-being matters just as much as anyone else’s. With some preparation and care, you can make this New Year a celebration that everyone—human and canine—can enjoy together.
