New Year's Eve can be a festive time for people, but for pets, it can often be stressful and scary. Loud noises, fireworks, and large gatherings can cause anxiety and pose risks to our furry friends. As a pet-care business, you play a vital role in educating and assisting pet owners in keeping their pets safe and comfortable during these celebrations. Here are some tips you can share with pet parents and also practice at your facility to ensure pets stay secure on New Year's Eve.
1. Create a Safe and Comfortable Space
Tip: Set up a quiet, comfortable area for pets to take refuge.
Prepare a safe space for pets, away from the noise and excitement. This could be a quiet room with their bed, favorite toys, and access to water. Playing soft music or using a white noise machine can also help mask the sounds of fireworks and celebrations.
2. Update Pet Identification
Tip: Remind pet parents to check their pets' ID tags and microchip information.
With the increased risk of pets running away from home due to fear of fireworks, it’s crucial that they have up-to-date identification. Ensure pet owners check that ID tags are secure and readable, and microchip information is current.
3. Offer Calming Products and Services
Service: Provide or recommend products and services that can help calm pets.
Your business can offer calming collars, anxiety wraps, or natural calming supplements. You might also provide services such as a pre-New Year's grooming session to help pets feel relaxed.
4. Share Tips on Desensitization
Advice: Educate pet owners about desensitizing their pets to loud noises.
In the days leading up to New Year's Eve, pet owners can work on desensitizing their pets to loud noises. This can involve playing recorded firework sounds at a low volume and gradually increasing it, rewarding their pet for calm behavior.
5. Advise on Routine Maintenance
Tip: Suggest keeping pets on their routine as much as possible.
Maintaining a normal routine can help pets feel more secure. Advise pet owners to stick to their pet’s regular feeding, walking, and bedtime schedule.
6. Encourage Safe Celebration Practices
Advice: Remind pet owners to be mindful of their New Year's Eve decorations and festivities.
Inform clients about potential hazards like toxic foods, alcoholic beverages, and dangerous decorations (like streamers or balloons) that pets might ingest.
7. Promote Boarding Services
Service: Provide a boarding option for pets during New Year's Eve.
If your business offers boarding, remind clients that this can be a safe option for pets, especially if they plan to host a large gathering or are particularly anxious.
8. Emergency Preparedness
Tip: Educate clients about what to do in case of an emergency.
Provide information on emergency pet care, including contact details for local veterinary emergency services and advice on pet first aid.
New Year's Eve doesn’t have to be a stressful time for pets. By offering the right advice and services, pet-care businesses can play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and comfort of pets during these celebrations. Educating pet owners and providing support can make a significant difference in making this festive season enjoyable for both pets and their families.
