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Ahead of New Year’s Fireworks, German Outlets Share How to Protect Frightened Dogs

Behavior specialists say preparation reduces panic and escape risks.

Overview

  • Regional newspapers in North Rhine-Westphalia and national outlets published fresh guidance on December 27 to help owners manage canine fear during New Year’s Eve fireworks.
  • Coverage highlights simple quiet refuges such as under-sofa hiding spots or cellar steps and suggests masking sights and sounds with closed curtains and calming music.
  • Safety advice for walks includes a secure harness with double leash control, a waist-belt attachment, and GPS tracking after TASSO logged 457 runaway dogs around last New Year compared with a daily average of 84.
  • Experts recommend cozy dens with blankets, gradual exposure to calming scents like lavender, herbal teas, ear-damping headgear, and veterinary calming pastes, while warning against giving human medications.
  • Local reporting features tips from a dog psychologist and a trainer and uses community examples and imagery, including named pets like Pablo and Mina, to show how households can prepare now.