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How to give your dog or cat a happy New Year

Learn fun and creative ways to celebrate the New Year with your pet! Discover tips for festive treats, activities, and bonding moments to ensure a joyful start!
Author: Veterinary Team
Dial A Vet
Updated
June 6, 2025
|
Published
July 4, 2025
Happy cat wearing a party hat sitting next to a cheerful dog with festive decorations for New Year celebrations.
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As the New Year approaches, many of us focus on fresh starts, celebrations, and resolutions. But for pet owners, it's also an opportunity to reflect on how to improve the happiness and well-being of our furry friends. Whether you’re making plans for a quiet night in or a big celebration, ensuring your dog or cat feels safe, healthy, and loved is key to starting the year off right.

🩺 Vet Recommendations

Creating a joyful New Year for your pet starts with understanding their physical and emotional needs. Dogs and cats thrive on consistency and care, so the steps you take now can set the tone for a healthier, happier year ahead.

  • Schedule an annual wellness check with your vet to address any health concerns.
  • Ensure your pet is up to date on vaccinations and parasite prevention.
  • Evaluate their diet to ensure they’re getting the proper nutrition for their age and activity level.
  • Engage in regular exercise or play to maintain physical fitness and mental stimulation.
  • Monitor their weight and adjust feeding portions if needed to prevent obesity.

Preventative care is the foundation of your pet’s well-being. This ensures that any potential health issues are caught early, giving your pet the best chance for a long, happy life.

📋 Care Tips

New Year celebrations can bring changes to your pet’s environment, which may be stressful for them. Follow these tips to help your dog or cat feel calm and comfortable:

  • Provide a safe space: Create a quiet area where your pet can retreat if they feel overwhelmed by noise or guests.
  • Stick to their routine: Feed, walk, and play with your pet at their usual times to provide stability.
  • Watch out for holiday hazards: Keep party foods, alcohol, and decorations like tinsel or confetti out of reach.
  • Comfort during fireworks: Loud noises can be frightening. Use calming techniques like white noise, anxiety wraps, or pheromone diffusers.
  • Engage their mind: Interactive toys or treat puzzles can keep your pet entertained while you celebrate.

By anticipating potential stressors, you can create a more enjoyable environment for your pet, even during the busiest times.

✅ Do’s and Don’ts

When planning for the New Year, keep these important do’s and don’ts in mind to ensure your pet’s happiness and safety:

  • Do: Include your pet in family traditions, such as a long walk or special treat, to help them feel part of the celebrations.
  • Do: Monitor their behavior for signs of stress, such as pacing, whining, hiding, or changes in appetite.
  • Do: Keep your pet hydrated and offer plenty of fresh water, especially if they’re more active than usual.
  • Don’t: Feed your pet human foods like chocolate, grapes, or anything seasoned with garlic or onions, as these can be toxic.
  • Don’t: Force your pet to interact with guests if they seem uncomfortable.

According to the ASPCA, even small amounts of foods like chocolate or garlic can be harmful to pets (source). Always prioritize their safety over the festive atmosphere.

💡 Expert Advice

Every pet is unique, and their needs will vary depending on their breed, age, and personality. Here are a few additional tips to help you tailor your New Year plans to your furry companion:

  • For anxious pets: Talk to your vet about calming supplements or medications if your pet struggles with loud noises or changes in routine.
  • For senior pets: Pay attention to their mobility and comfort. Provide soft bedding and avoid overstimulation.
  • For puppies or kittens: Supervise them closely during celebrations to prevent them from chewing on or ingesting hazardous items.
  • For active breeds: Plan extra exercise, such as a long walk or play session, to tire them out before festivities begin.

Remember, your pet relies on you to keep them safe and happy. A little preparation goes a long way in making the New Year enjoyable for both of you.

FAQs

Q: How can I calm my pet during fireworks?
A: Fireworks can be stressful for many pets. Provide a quiet, secure space for them, use white noise or calming music, and consider anxiety wraps or pheromone diffusers. If your pet has severe anxiety, consult your vet for additional options.

Q: Can I give my pet a special treat for New Year’s?
A: Yes, but stick to pet-safe treats. Avoid human foods like chocolate, grapes, or anything seasoned with garlic or onions, as these can be toxic to pets.

Book a $49 online vet consultation at https://www.dialavet.com for fast, expert advice.

References

While every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of this content - including vet review where applicable - this article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If your pet is unwell or you are concerned, please speak with a licensed veterinarian. You can book a $49 online consultation with our veterinary team  😄
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