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New Year’s Eve 2026: Helping Pets Stay Calm During Fireworks

  • Writer: Lonsdale Place Veterinary Clinic
    Lonsdale Place Veterinary Clinic
  • 4 days ago
  • 2 min read
Lonsdale Place Veterinary Clinic North Vancouver Vet

New Year’s Eve festivities are exciting for people—but often frightening for our pets. Even confident dogs and cats can become stressed by unexpected bangs, flashing lights, and the general noise of celebrations.

Here’s how you can make the night safer and more comfortable for your pet.

North Vancouver Vet

Why Fireworks Trigger Anxiety

Pets have much more sensitive hearing than humans. Fireworks are:

  • Loud

  • Sudden

  • Unpredictable

  • Paired with flashes of light

This combination can cause panic, shaking, vocalizing, hiding, and in severe cases, attempts to escape.

North Vancouver Vet

How to Prepare Your Home Before Night Falls

1. Create a Safe Space

Choose a quiet room away from windows. Add:

  • Soft bedding

  • Toys

  • Familiar scents

  • White noise (fan, TV, calming music)

2. Keep Pets Indoors

Even well-trained pets can bolt when startled. Ensure:

  • Doors and windows are shut

  • Leashes are secure during bathroom breaks

  • Cats stay inside with blinds closed

3. Provide Distraction

Give treats, chews, enrichment toys, or food puzzles to keep their mind engaged.


Lonsdale Place Veterinary Clinic North Vancouver Vet

How to Support Anxious Pets

1. Calm Presence

Stay home if possible. Your reassurance matters.

2. Pheromone Support

Products like Adaptil (dogs) or Feliway (cats) can help reduce stress.

3. Anti-Anxiety Supplements

L-theanine, calming chews, or milk-protein–based supplements can help mild to moderate anxiety.

4. Prescription Medication

For pets with severe noise phobia, pre-planned anti-anxiety medication can make the night safer and far less frightening. Contact us well before December 31st to discuss your pet’s needs.

North Vancouver Vet

Signs You Should Talk to a Veterinarian

  • Panic or escape attempts

  • Drooling, pacing, trembling

  • Destructive behaviour

  • Vomiting or accidents related to fear

  • A history of noise anxiety

  • Worsening symptoms year after year

We can help develop a personalized plan for future fireworks events.

North Vancouver Vet

A Safe and Happy Start to 2026

By preparing early, you can ensure your pet’s New Year’s Eve is calm, comfortable, and stress-free. If your pet has a history of anxiety, or if you'd like advice on calming supplements or medications, the team at Lonsdale Place Veterinary Clinic is here to help. North Vancouver Vet


 
 
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