Tips for a Stress-Free New Year's Eve

It won't be long before we're celebrating New Year's Eve again. For many pony owners, this time of year can be a bit stressful—after all, how do we keep the ponies calm during the fireworks?!

Even the calmest pony can be startled by loud noises and flashing lights. Here are a few tips to help you make New Year’s Eve as stress-free as possible for your pony (or ponies).

Find out where there are fireworks

Find out if there are any fireworks shows in the immediate vicinity of the stable or pasture.

Let your neighbors and the organizations putting on fireworks shows know (if possible) that there are ponies in the area. Explain that ponies can become stressed by fireworks. That way, they might adjust the direction of the fireworks so they’re not aimed at the ponies.

Familiar surroundings

Decide whether to keep your pony in the stable or in the pasture. We recommend keeping your pony in its familiar surroundings and maintaining its normal routine. Ideally, it should be in the company of other ponies to help it feel more secure. Only put your pony out in the pasture if it’s safe and far away from places where fireworks are being set off.

Safety

Check the stable thoroughly to make sure there are no objects that could injure your pony if it panics. Examples include protruding screws or wires.

If your pony stays in the pasture, check carefully to make sure the fence is still intact and that there are no objects on the ground that could cause injury.

Fire Safety

Especially if a bonfire is being lit nearby, a fire extinguisher is no luxury. The same goes for having a plan in place in case a fire should unexpectedly break out in the barn.

Veterinarian

If you know that your pony is very sensitive to fireworks, talk to your veterinarian about the possibility of sedation or, if necessary, finding another place to board your pony during this time.

Insurance

Make sure you have the proper insurance coverage. If your pony panics and escapes, it could cause damage or (even worse) an accident. In that case, you, as the owner, are liable.

Information for the Pet Sitter

Sometimes you have no choice but to leave your pony with someone else. In that case, be sure to leave clear instructions and phone numbers (for yourself and your veterinarian) in case a problem arises.

Music

Playing music on a radio just outside the stable can often mask sudden noises and provide enough distraction to help a pony stay calm.

Stay in the area

Make sure that you or someone with experience stays close to you if you know that fireworks will be set off.

Calm and alert

And, not unimportantly: stay calm yourself! Ponies can sense when you’re uncomfortable, and that makes an already nervous pony even more stressed than it already was. Also, stay alert. A frightened pony can be dangerous.

Source:  Horse&Hound / Cap Magazine