Boston, MA – Fireworks are expected across New England tonight as New Year’s Eve celebrations begin, prompting dog owners in Massachusetts, Connecticut, Rhode Island, New Hampshire, Vermont, and Maine to take steps to reduce anxiety and prevent escapes.
Even in communities without official fireworks displays, loud booms and flashing lights are common throughout the evening and into the early morning hours. New Year’s Eve is consistently one of the busiest nights of the year for animal shelters due to dogs fleeing homes and yards after being startled by fireworks.
Fireworks noise is expected to be widespread in population centers including Boston and Worcester in Massachusetts, Hartford and New Haven in Connecticut, Providence in Rhode Island, Manchester in New Hampshire, Burlington in Vermont, and Portland in Maine, with sound traveling well beyond city limits.
How to Calm Dogs During Fireworks
Pet safety experts recommend preparing early, before fireworks begin:
- Bring dogs indoors well before sunset
- Complete walks earlier in the evening
- Secure doors, windows, and fences
- Set up a quiet, enclosed safe space
- Close curtains and play steady background noise
- Stay home with dogs during peak fireworks hours
- Ensure collars, tags, and microchips are current
Dogs with a history of noise anxiety may benefit from calming wraps, pheromone products, or veterinarian-approved medications prescribed in advance.
Signs of Serious Stress
Shaking, pacing, heavy panting, drooling, destructive behavior, or repeated escape attempts may signal extreme distress. Punishing fearful behavior can worsen anxiety and should be avoided.
With fireworks expected across multiple New England states tonight, dog owners are encouraged to plan ahead and monitor pets closely through the early morning hours.
How does your dog react to fireworks? What helps them stay calm?
