We've already established that your pets are part of the family. (Obviously! Was there any doubt?) Which is exactly why they are a crucial part of your New Year's Eve celebration. If you're ringing in the new year already with human loved ones, your dogs and cats need to be part of the fun! Here are some memorable and festive ways you can celebrate the big 2-3 with your furry family members:
Matching hats. Take a family photo with everyone in New Year's hats, including the pups. Now...will your dogs keep their hats on? Probably not. Don't be shocked if the slip off their heads easily. However, some sites do sell New Year's hats specifically for dogs, such as Chewy.com and BaxterBoo. (Order them ASAP so they arrive in time for New Year's!) The family photos you take and upload to social media--or frame in the home--will make everyone smile.
Gift your pup. Admit it, your dogs are spoiled rotten. It's OK, ours are too. It's hard to resist buying them toys. Why not gift them an adorable New Year's-themed chew toy they can drag around the house December 31, January 1, and beyond? This toy is a play rope with 3 squishy toys hanging off if: a stuffed clock, stuffed champagne bottle, and plush hat. It's too cute for words, and a present all your fellow pet-loving guests will gush over when they see it in Fido's mouth before the Times Square ball drops.
They also sell "Diet Starts Next Week" plushies for pets, and--this is too funny--a dog toy 'gym bag'. (Hey, if your personal resolution is to workout more often, don't forget Fido needs to maintain walks too--even in chilly weather.)
Give them special DOG food. Not all celebratory human food is good for dog's sensitive bellies. You may enjoy BBQ or spicy food on New Year's, but keep all that away from your dogs. You definitely don't want them to be sick, and your vet many not even be open on New Year's Day in case of emergency. Instead, give your dog special treats, such as healthier Fish & Sweet Potato Fresh Dog food, dog-friendly ice-cream, or even some jerkybites.
Throw a paw-ty. Gather all your pet-owner friends together at a doggie park or run, and dress them all in party hats and lei's...any accessories you think are photo-worthy...so they can ring in the New Year with all the pooches in the neighborhood. Not only will you have an excuse to socialize with friends, but the running around with other dogs may tire your pups out, so by the time New Years comes around, they're ready to snooze the night away after "paw-tying" with friends.
Remember: many dogs are incredibly scared of fireworks and doorbells--the loud noises can give them anxiety and cause them to bark and growl under duress. Consider leaving them in another room in the house, such as a basement which may be quieter, with their fave toys and foods, invest in a calming hoodie, and talk to your vet immediately about other ways to keep them calm. Don't give them any anti-anxiety medicine without consulting the doctor and make sure your pup is microchipped. In case they run out the door in fear, you want to make sure they have ID on them. You can never be too careful; many vets recommend a doggie ID collar as well as a microchip.
Happy New Year!
