Holiday Harmony - Navigating Fireworks this New Years

Affiliate Disclaimer
Some of the links in this post may be affiliate links. This means that if you click a link and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only share products and services that I truly trust and believe will support you and your dog’s wellbeing. Your support helps me continue creating resources and guides for you and your furry family members — thank you!

The New Year is mere days away, and with it comes celebrations, excitement, and of course fireworks lighting up the sky in beautiful, blinding bangs. For many, it’s a time of joy, togetherness, and a little sparkle. 

For our dogs, however, it can feel very different. Loud bangs and explosions, flashing lights, smoke, and unpredictability can be overwhelming and frightening, especially for dogs with existing noise phobias, fear, pain and anxiety. It can even be scary for dogs who usually seem calm. While we humans may think they’re “just being dramatic,” their stress is very real.

You are your dog’s safe place, and knowing how to support them during fireworks is one of the most compassionate things you can do for them. So, now that you're here, read on for this S.E.R.E.N.E.™ guide to helping your dog feel calm and safe on New Year’s Eve.

Why are Fireworks Problematic?

When I was younger, I loved fireworks, after all what wasn't to like? Pretty colours, fascinating noises and bangs... but it didn't take me long to realise that Fireworks just really aren't that great. What purpose do they really serve? They are rockets filled with pollutants, we fire them into the sky and watch as they explode, scaring animals and wildlife (as well as humans with sensory issues and conditions like PTSD), and they are a MASSIVE wildfire risk.  

Working in kennels and seeing the dogs I loved have to suffer through fireworks events and seeing the aftermath the next day is scarring. We did what we did of course, shutters to block out the noise, radios turned up with calming music, chews and enrichment for decompression, meds for the dogs who needed it, and time out of kennels for those who really struggled... and yet it wasn't always enough. 

Dogs experience the world very differently from humans. Their hearing is far more sensitive, and sudden, unpredictable noises — like fireworks — can feel threatening and downright terrifying. Bright flashes, vibrations, and not to mention the acrid smell of smoke is intense with their extraordinary smell. All of this simply adds extra layers of confusion, stress and panic.

It’s important to remember: fear is a valid emotional response. It is not an over reaction or misbehaviour, and fun fact: comforting your dog doesn't reinforce fear. In fact, giving them reassurance and comfort has been proven to help calm them and support them through the stressful event. 

What is your dog really telling you?

Some dogs may appear calm, but even then, they might be internally overwhelmed, freezing or shutting down as a way to cope. Others may become highly reactive, trying to escape, bark, or seek protection.

Understanding these signals helps guardians respond with empathy and care, rather than frustration. By recognising that fireworks can be scary, we can better prepare, support, and reassure our dogs — giving them the safety, comfort, and calm they need to get through a noisy New Year’s Eve.

Common signs of fear or stress include:

• Panting

• Pinned Ears

• Restlessness or pacing

• Shaking or trembling

• Hiding or seeking shelter (Can also include digging)

• Barking, whining, or howling

• Clinginess or shadowing their guardian

• Freezing or shutting down

• Fainting (in extreme situations)

Even if a dog seems “quiet” during fireworks, they may still be experiencing intense anxiety internally. Our job as guardians is to notice, respect, and respond to these signals with kindness and care.

The S.E.R.E.N.E.™ Approach to New Year’s Eve (and other firework events)

The preparation for New Year's begins far before the Fireworks. If you know your dog struggles with Fireworks, talk to your Vet (advance medication or supplements may help better support your dog) as well as your trainer ahead of time to get support that is individually beneficial and supportive to your dog.

Other things that can help are:

• An early daytime walk
• Feeding a little earlier
• Prepare safe room/safe doggy area
• Setting up calming music, white noise, fans
• Block windows etc to avoid visual triggers
• Have chews, lick mats, stuffed Kongs ready
• Ensure ID tags and microchip info are current incase they get scared and escape
• Plan potty breaks before fireworks begin

I also highly recommend Blackwing Farms Essences for supporting dogs, their Drama/Trauma Spray is especially effective for firework and noise phobias. You can shop their products here. Don't forget to use my discount code: UltiMutt10

During the Fireworks:

• Close curtains or blinds to minimize flashes

• Keep lights on to avoid stark contrasts and shadows that can startle your dog

• Play calming music or white noise to help mask outside sounds

• Stay calm and present be supportive but don’t force interaction

• Allow hiding or safe spaces. Letting your dog choose where to be helps them feel calmer

• Provide enrichment like chew toys, stuffed Kongs, or scent games to redirect focus

• Never punish fear behaviours — barking, shaking, or pacing are normal responses. Comfort them

• Avoid taking your dog outside until the fireworks have ended and it’s safe and quiet.

• A Thundershirt may be beneficial for anxious dogs

• For dogs with extreme sensitivity, a quiet overnight stay in a safe location (like a trusted friend’s home, a pet-friendly boarding facility, or even a car with familiar bedding) can make a huge difference.

After the Fireworks:

• Allow your dog to decompress slowly the next day, offer calm activities and encourage sleep.

• Take a gentle sniffy walk for exercise and scent exploration/decompression

• Resume normal routines as soon as possible to restore predictability (if appropriate to your dog)

• Update your vet if your dog struggled

• Consider a consult with a trainer or behaviourist if your dog struggled, so you can plan for future firework events.

A note on highly sensitive dogs:

In addition to the above steps, seeking the help and working with a Professional can go a long way in supporting your sensitive dog. 

• Ensure you have your dog thoroughly checked medically to eliminate pain or discomfort being a factor in their behaviour.  
• Speak to your vet before fireworks and see if medication, pheromones, or supplements could help.
• Consulting with an Ethical Training Professional or behaviourist to help with desensitization, counter-conditioning and long-term support.

If your dog struggles, you are not failing them. Remember, your dog needs support, not to snap out of it. Support and comfort that takes time, but the end results are so worth it.

S.E.R.E.N.E™ steps to remember:

Safety — 

• Consider removing your dog from the noisy environment and taking a drive or staying in a quiet place
• Create a secure space they can hide in
• close blinds; provide white noise
• Manage outdoor access

Empathy — 

• Imagine what they are feeling. Picture your phobia and how you would want to be treated
• Be kind and comforting
• Don’t punish vocalizing or hiding

Regulation — 

• Provide grounding enrichment, lickmats, snuffle mats, scents and calming toys
• Support self-soothing behaviours (chewing, licking, sniffing games)
• Give supplements and medications if prescribed
• Use a Thundershirt if advised
• Use Blackwing Farm sprays if you purchased them to help your dog cope

Exploration — 

• Let them move around freely inside
• Do not confine them in a crate (this can worsen panic)
• Allow access to chosen safe spots
• Make good use of scent games and snuffle activities

Nurture — 

• Offer touch if they want it; be soothing and predictable
• Offer blankets and soft textures
• If comforting, leave something with your scent in your dogs safe space

Empowerment — 

• Give choices (Offer different beds, spaces, food and toys
• Respect their choice if they want to be close to you
• Respect their choice if they don't want to be near you

Hopefully soon we will live in a world that chooses to not utilize Fireworks, (and instead does drone shows or other silent alternatives!) but until then, be your dogs safety and their anchor in the storm. 

Holiday Happiness - Choosing Comfort Over Costumes

It's the holidays and everyone gets a kick out of seeing little Charlie in a Christmas outfit, or Bella as a sugarplum fairy, or Max as a Reindeer. But are those dogs really enjoying being dressed up?  

Holiday Stress & Dressing Dogs Up: What We Often Miss in the Festive Excitement

The holidays bring joy. Lot's of lights, laughter, and plenty of adorable photo opportunities. Now don't get me wrong, I understand that you want your dog to be part of the celebration — after all, they’re family!

But let's look beneath the festivities, beneath the sparkles and glitter. The holidays can be overstimulating and extremely stressful for dogs. Unfortunately, one common source of discomfort is something many guardians don’t realize is stressful at all.

Dressing dogs up in clothing, costumes, or accessories.

Before you gather the tiny Santa hats or reindeer antlers, here are some careful considerations to help you support your dog’s comfort and emotional wellbeing this holiday season.

Holiday Stress Is Real for Dogs

Dogs experience the world very differently compared to us humans. What feels cozy and festive to us can feel extremely overwhelming to them. Too many smells, too many loud noises, too much movement, all of these things can affect our dogs negatively. 

Being cautious with things like Loud music, strong smells, food, decorations, visitors and children, not to mention changing schedules and things like bright lights. Add in wearing clothing and costumes that may not fit well, or just be plain scary to them and stress can rise quickly. 

Imagine being in something that restricts your movement, digs into your head or ears, makes you feel too hot or simply feels strange on your skin. That dreamy holiday fun soon becomes a nightmare.

Doggy Dress Up

Some dogs enjoy wearing clothes, for instance, some small dogs who feel the cold easily enjoy the warmth of a sweater. Some anxious dogs benefit from items like Thundershirt to help them cope with fears and phobias. 

In general, dressing dogs up for novelty is not usually a good idea.

Dogs don’t really need clothing, it isn't a natural occurrence for them. It can feel:

• Restrictive
• Heavy
• Too warm
• Strange texture or sound

Dogs communicate through their bodies. If their body is covered, restricted, or altered, they lose some ability to express themselves clearly and comfortably. They also can become so overwhelmed that they shut down - this is when most people think they are calm or happy, but that couldn't be further from the truth. It's good to be aware of signs of stress in dogs such as:

• Paw lifting
• Freezing
• Walking stiffly
• Avoidance
• Ears back
• Lip licking
• Whale eye
• Excessive shaking
• Yawing

Some of these signals can be easily missed, or localized to the situation (like scratching at the outfit). Many guardians interpret these as cute reactions, but they’re often early signals of discomfort. These signs can be overlooked at the expense of the dog. 

Clothing can also block your dog’s ability to stretch, scratch, shake off stress, communicate with others, move freely and regulate their temperature. 

Like I said earlier, I'm not saying that all dogs dislike clothing. Some tolerate it well, especially soft harnesses or lightweight coats for warmth — but festive costumes are rarely designed with dog welfare in mind.

The S.E.R.E.N.E.™ Approach to Holiday Outfits

Here’s how to check whether dressing your dog up supports or hinders their wellbeing:

Safety - Is the outfit safe? No dangling bits, tight straps, choking hazards, overheating, or restricted breathing? Would my dog be happier without the outfit?

Empathy - Does your dog want this? Are their signals saying “yes,” “maybe,” or “no thank you”?

Regulation - Does the outfit allow your dog to move, shake off, scratch, stretch, and decompress?

Exploration - Can your dog walk, explore, and interact normally, or do they freeze or become hesitant?

Nurture - Is this outfit for the dog’s comfort (e.g., warmth) or for human entertainment? What would the dog prefer?

Empowerment - Does your dog have the choice to walk away or say “no”? Are you listening when they do?

Better Ways to Include Your Dog in the Festivities

Here are some gentle, dog-centered alternatives:

• A holiday collar or bandana that’s lightweight and comfortable
• A festive harness in soft, familiar materials
• Cozy winter coats that serve a purpose (warmth, waterproof, wind/snow protection)
• Taking holiday photos during calm moments, not busy ones
• Letting your dog choose whether they want participate in photos
• Creating enriching holiday routines (sniff walks, puzzle toys, scent games)

Remember, your dog doesn’t need to be dressed up to be festive — their presence alone brings warmth to every room.

Dogs communicate so quietly sometimes, and choosing to honor their comfort is one of the kindest gifts we can give them. The holidays should be enjoyable for everyone, especially our furry friends.

So before reaching for the costumes, ask is this joyful for my dog, or just for me?

Choosing your dog's comfort is never boring. 

It’s compassionate. It’s connection. It’s S.E.R.E.N.E.™

Holiday Hearts - Mindful Dog Adoption This Christmas

Affiliate Disclaimer

Some of the links in this post may be affiliate links. This means that if you click a link and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only share products and services that I truly trust and believe will support you and your dog’s wellbeing. Your support helps me continue creating resources and guides for you and your furry family members — thank you!

Snow outside, a cozy fire going, time off work and all the family gathered around with a box with a ribbon... 

And out pops a puppy. 

After all, they are a perfect gift right? What could be better than the pitter patter of little paws, an adorable little face and floofy tail... it's a dream come true... until it's not.

Let's face it, the holidays are full of sparkle, excitement, and generosity — so it’s easy to feel like Christmas is the perfect time to welcome a new dog into the family. But the festive season is simply not the time to do so.

I'm not here to burst your bubble, just to raise some awareness. Before saying “yes” to a new furry family member, consider the following.

Lessons from Kennels

This is a subject I am passionate about due to my past working in Rescue Kennels and seeing hundreds and thousands of dogs abandoned and left for dead after Christmas time. I have witnessed truly terrible, depressing things that I wouldn't wish on anyone, especially not dogs who only want to love their people. I write this blog because I have seen firsthand how many families underestimate the long-term responsibility and commitment of dog ownership. The kennels I worked for has this registered trademark that is still so true today:

“A dog is for life, not just for Christmas®.”

If you want, you can watch a very powerful advert they released here.   Be warned though, you may need some tissues for those tears. 

The point is, every dog deserves a stable, loving home. They require consistent care, and a lifetime of attention, they are not just fleeting festive entertainment. Puppies and adult dogs alike thrive when their guardians commit to years of training, love, and understanding — not just the sparkle and allure of the holiday season.

What else should be considered before buying or adopting a dog for Christmas?

Holiday Stress is Real for Dogs

If you read my previous blog "Holiday Serenity - Safety Tips for Dogs" then you'll have some insight into this section. Loud music, guests, decorations, and shifting routines can be sensory overload for dogs, especially a new pup - no matter their age!

Dogs benefit from routine, particularly puppies and sensitive dogs. They need calm, not chaos.

Bringing a dog home in December can increase stress for both dog and guardian. When the holiday spirit dies down and reality sets in, the winter blues arrive quickly. 

If you'd like more tips about supporting a dog through the holiday season, be sure to check out my Holiday Serenity Blog Post!

Time, Attention, and Training Needs

Dogs need structure, commitment and care. Puppies in particular need daily supervision, training sessions, socialization, and enrichment.

Here are some necessary questions to ask yourself some key questions before you welcome a dog to your family:

• Am I committed to this dog? 
• Do I realistically have the time, space and resources a dog needs?
• Will I have enough time to build routines and support my dog’s emotional needs?
• Am I prepared for the financial commitment of a new dog?
• If an emergency vet visit happened over the holiday period, would I be financially ready?
• If an emergency vet visit is needed another time, can I afford it?
• Can I comfortably afford essentials like food, bedding, toys, chews, collars, leashes?
• Can I put time into training?
• If needed, can I afford ethical training support?
• Can I provide for this dog fully, without cutting corners on their wellbeing?
• Did I research this dog's breed, or do I want them because they are cute?
• Does this dog’s personality and energy level truly fit my lifestyle?
• Have I considered the dog’s breed traits, sensitivities, and daily needs?
• Would a high-energy puppy struggle with the busy holiday period? 
• Can I afford care if I need to travel?
• Would a sensitive, shy, or older dog need a quieter, more predictable environment than I can offer right now?

Holidays bring a lot of whimsy and decisions/wants that often are rose tinted. Will the dog fit into your life well? If not, are you prepared to make adjustments? Dogs still need exercise and stimulation on days when you have to work or are sick. Thinking ahead past the holiday period can help you make a better decision for you and the dog in question.

Alternatives to a Christmas Dog

If the timing isn’t ideal, there are still festive ways to bring joy without overwhelming a pup or dog.

• Consider gifting an ethical dog book for education.
• Consider gifting a starter kit. E.g. - leash, toy, bed etc.
• Sponsor a rescue dog: donate in someone’s name.
• Volunteer with a local shelter.

If you still want to adopt, wait til later in the New Year. It will be more realistic and a calmer environment. It will be easier to plan, establish routines and ultimately be less stress for both the pup and your family.

On that note, here are some S.E.R.E.N.E.™ Mindset for Holiday Adoptions:

Before adopting or gifting a dog, consider:

Safety: Will you be reliable & committed? Can you provide a secure, calm environment from day one?

Empathy: Can you tune in to your dogs signals and adjust your celebrations?

Regulation: Can you balance physical exercise, mental stimulation and decompression time?

Exploration: Will your new dog have safe opportunities to learn and explore?

Nurture: Can you commit to daily care, love, and ethical guidance?

Empowerment: Will your dog be able to make choices safely, even during the holidays?

Remember, the holidays can be magical, but adopting a dog is a long-term commitment, not a holiday surprise. Afterall...

“A dog is for life, not just for Christmas®.”

By pausing, planning, and approaching adoption with compassion and mindfulness, you give your future dog the best start possible. 

For supporting your dog when they get home, check out Blackwing Farm Essences here. Don't forget to use my discount code: UltiMutt10

Holiday Serenity - Safety Tips for Dogs

Affiliate Disclaimer
Some of the links in this post may be affiliate links. This means that if you click a link and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only share products and services that I truly trust and believe will support you and your dog’s wellbeing. Your support helps me continue creating resources and guides for you and your furry family members — thank you!

The Winter Holiday's are almost here and between all the gift wrapping, food prepping and time with family keeping your sensitive pup safe, regulated and happy can sometimes become an afterthought. But never fear - I have your back! 

The holidays bring sparkle, excitement, rich smells, new visitors — and for our dogs, all of that can feel like a lot. Between tempting foods, loud chatter (or singing), relaxed routines, and glittering decorations, it’s completely normal for dogs (especially our sensitive ones) to become overwhelmed.

So, without further delay, here’s how to keep your canine companions safe, steady, and comfortable through the festive season.

Holiday Foods to Avoid

Food glorious food! Who isn't thinking about food at any given time? Especially now. With family gatherings come food both savory and sweet that are unsafe for dogs. 

Toxic foods for dogs:

• Alcohol (including creamy liqueurs)
  
• Chocolate
• Christmas Pudding (including Mince Pies)
• Cooked Bones
• Grapes & raisins (including fruitcake)
  
• Macadamia nuts
• Onions (including garlic, leeks, shallots and chives)
  
• Rich, fatty meats (can cause pancreatitis)
• Stuffing 
• Xylitol (in sweets/candies and baked goods)

In addition it's a good rule to avoid leftovers, especially heavily seasoned, salty or mouldy. These things listed are all toxic to dogs and can cause serious damage and illness, even in small amounts.

To be safe, if you are unsure if your dog can have it - don't give them any!

Holiday Foods that are safe

Well that was quite the list of forbidden foods, so here are some nice, safe snacks your dog can enjoy.

Safe foods for dogs:

• Boiled Potatoes (AKA New Potatoes)
• Broccoli
• Brussel Sprouts
• Carrots
• Dollops of plain pumpkin
• Green Beans
• Lamb Meat (no bones)
• Mash Potatoes (preferably no added butter)
• Parsnips
• Peas
• Salmon (preferably fillets or cooked in spring water instead of smoked)
• Swede
• Sweet Potatoes
• Turkey (plain, no bones, skin or seasoning)

You could also make this an extra special time for your dog by making them a mini dog safe roast dinner or a holiday-themed lick mat (using things like pumpkin, yoghurt, kibble, a drizzle of salmon broth)

Decorations, Trees & Festive Hazards

Holiday décor can be appealing, it's shiny, colourful and often looks like toys that our pets are used to playing with!

Some Rules to follow:

• Always supervise your dog.

Supervising your dog can prevent a lot of trouble and heartache. Don't leave gifts within reach or unattended if your dog is the curious type. Take special care around decorations. For instance, the following decorations can be hazardous.

• Candles - opt for flameless when possible.
• Glass ornaments - can shatter if batted or knocked down.
  
• Tinsel & ribbon - dangerous if swallowed.
• Tree needles - can cause mouth irritation or tummy upset.
• Snow globes - some contain antifreeze — keep far out of reach.

Be sure to keep any electrical cords for fairy lights tucked away or use cord protectors. That thought leads me to Trees.

Tree specific tips

The most common types of Christmas trees including pine, fir and spruce are not highly toxic to dogs. However, the oils they produce and pine needles that drop from the tree can pose a risk. How I hear you ask! Well, not only can the sharp pine needles get stuck in your dog’s paws, they can cause mild stomach upset or even a blockage if eaten. 

Make sure you:

• Secure the tree so it can’t tip.
• Avoid edible ornaments.
• Clean up fallen needles.

• Cover tree water (it can contain preservatives).

Christmas time can also bring a higher risk with poisonous plants. Toxic plants for dogs include:

• Holly
• Ivy
• Mistletoe
• Poinsettia
• Potpourri

If you make wise decisions in advance, prioritize your dog and keep harmful things away, you can have a great, less stressful holiday!

Guests & Routine Changes

As we all know, the holidays often mean more noise, along with potentially unfamiliar faces, and disrupted routines — all of which can be overwhelming for dogs, especially sensitive or shy pups.

You can help your dog feel safe by:

• Create a safe space - A room set up just for your dog, or even a quieter corner with a cozy bed, soft blankets, toys, and water is a wonderful place for them to retreat when things are too much.

• Give them a long-lasting chew - This can help them focus on something nice while regulating their emotions and aiding self-soothing.

• Let them opt-out of greeting - Not every dog wants holiday hugs, and that’s okay. If they don't want to greet anyone, let them have space. Your home is your dog's home, your guests are your guests - they are visiting temporarily... so make sure your dog feels safe in their home.

• Pre-party sniffari walk - Ideally it should be a long, slow walk to really fill up their cup, but even 5–10 minutes signals safety and can help reduce arousal.

• Use baby gates - Using baby gates can help your dog stay safe. It prevents them from accessing dangerous things, while also allowing them to observe without being overloaded.

Stress-Lowering Enrichment for the Season

Guests and noise can be a lot, if your dog is struggling (or if you want to help prevent overwhelm) these activities can help your dog stay regulated amidst all the hustle and bustle:

• Calm music or white noise

• Frozen Kongs / Toppls

• Scatter feeding

• Scent games with holiday themes (find the “gift” box!)

• Short, choice-driven walks

• Snuffle mats

Calming activities like this are great for decompression and emotional recovery.

A S.E.R.E.N.E.™ Reminder for the Holidays

Sensitive doesn’t mean misbehaving. Every day our dogs have to navigate a world that is not built for them. Your dog reacting to things that are new is normal, after all, they are trying to navigate a world full of big sensory experiences.

Holiday overstimulation is very real. If your dog is extra clingy, jumpy, barky, or just plain restless this season, they’re not “being bad”, they aren't being demanding. They are overwhelmed and asking for support.

For a great guide to S.E.R.E.N.E.™ this holiday season remember:

S – Safety first. Meet your dogs needs, provide a quiet place for them, support them.

E – Empathy always. Put yourself in your dogs paws, would you have fun if you were them?

R – Regulation is key. Provide decompression exercises, give them plenty of breaks.

E – Encourage Exploration. Let your dog explore if they feel comfortable, go at their pace.

N – Nurture with love. Praise, Pets, Treats, Comfort, these are all great ways to support your dog.

E – Empower through choice. Don't force your dog into situations, give them agency and choice.

Seeking Help

If your dog:

• Eats something toxic

• Shows signs of GI upset

• Gets injured

Contact your Vet. They may have differing hours over the holiday so make sure you have reliable first aid on hand, and up to date information on the closest available vet. 

If your dog is:

• Panicking around guests

• Displays aggressive or escalating fear responses

• Is acting out of sorts but is physically well

Contact your trainer/behaviour specialist. If you don't have a Trainer or Professional to contact, make sure you enquire about a qualified force free or ethical trainer at your earliest convenience. 

Did you know? 

Blackwing Farms sells natural flower remedies formulated for animals. Using these can help your pets navigate the holiday season (as well as normal life after!) Shop here.  Don't forget to use my discount code: UltiMutt10

Stay Safe and Serene this Winter Season!