But not just pets, wild animals also react with panic to the bang. While animal lovers can do no more than avoid wild animal fireworks, they can at least help their own pets. Veterinarian Katharina Schönthaler from Rappoltschlag knows some tricks and rules of conduct to ease the stress of New Year's Eve.
“Good preparation can help keep the animal's stress as low as possible,” says Schönthaler. “Keep your pet indoors from the afternoon onwards. Don’t let outdoor cats outside the day before or after New Year’s Eve.” Nature walks are best in the morning. “Give your pet a safe, dark, noise-free place to retreat.” Cages for birds and guinea pigs can be covered with cloth and placed in a quiet room. “Make your everyday life as normal as possible on New Year's Eve. The more familiar the daily routine, the more relaxed the animal is.”
The vet continued: “Don't leave your pet alone on New Year's Eve. Keep windows and doors closed and draw curtains. Distract the animal with calm music.” If your pet is prone to severe panic attacks, a sedative may help in consultation with your veterinarian. Receive it on time!
Important: “First think about your own behavior and remain calm. Your pet follows your cues. If you are also tense, this will be transferred to the animal’s sense of stress!” It helps dogs if they keep themselves occupied with their favorite toy. Schönthaler: “Do not stimulate your pet's fear: excessive affection or persuasion will only make the animal more insecure! If, despite your best efforts, the stress becomes too great, give your pet the sedative as previously discussed with your veterinarian.”
Veterinarian Katharina Schönthaler knows how pets can start the new year stress-free. Thanks to their sensitive senses, dogs like Luna experience New Year's fireworks much more intensely than humans.
Photo: Franz Fichtinger, Franz Fichtinger