Fun Ways to Ring In the New Year With Fido

Posted by Billy Francis

Whether you’re planning a low-key celebration with your best friend or attending an unforgettable “pawty,” here’s how to ring in the New Year with Fido by your side.

Bring Out the Bubbly

Photo by Pearhead

When the clock strikes 12 (or a few hours before), it’s time to pop bottles with your pup. Okay, so maybe Fido won’t be drinking, but he can still “pawticipate” in the fun with the Happy Chew Year! Dog Toys. The three-pack of toys comes with a plush bottle of champagne, a festive party hat and a replica of the Times Square crystal ball. Each toy also includes a squeaker, making it twice the fun for Fido. If you want to give your pooch something tasty to enjoy, order the Plato’s Celebration Box, with a variety of yummy treats.

New Year, New Fido

"I’m tired of all these resolutions.” Photo by BringFido

Last year’s resolutions started off so well, but how many of them were you able to keep? We're sure this year will be different. Grab a pen and paper, sit down with Fido on NYE, and scribble down your joint resolutions. In the new year, will you get active, eat healthier, exercise, dedicate time to self-care, or simply spend more time together? You can even start planning your dog-friendly travel for the new year. Consider a road trip with Fido or a weekend getaway to a new city, or grab a copy of BringFido’s Ruff Guide to the United States to start planning your bucket list vacation together.

Tennis Ball Drop

“Sorry, I don’t have enough to share!” Photo by iStock/Jarrycz.

Over one billion people worldwide tune in for the Times Square Ball Drop each year, but it’s not the most captivating watch for canine viewers. When the clock strikes midnight, start the year by releasing a bunch of tennis balls and watching your dog’s joyous reaction. If you’d prefer not to drop tennis balls at home, find a dog-friendly event near you, like Bar K Noon Year’s Eve in Kansas City, MO, where Fido can countdown til noon on December 31, and when the tennis balls drop, he can join in the chase to grab his own.

Dinner “Pawty”

Photo by Pet Krewe

Dress Fido up in his best tux for the black tie event of the year. Share a sophisticated celebration that combines fine food (burgers?) with a first-class drink (beer, anyone?) and exquisite company. If you’d prefer not to cook at home, visit a restaurant with a gourmet dog menu, a fine dining establishment with a dog-friendly patio, or a restaurant perfect for winter weather.

Get Out of Town for the Night

"Pawty" some place new this year. Photo by BringFido/Jan

Plan a getaway to the beach, a national park, or a vacation rental with amenities just for Fido this New Year’s Eve, or find a cozy winter cabin to call home for the evening. A pet-friendly hotel with a view may also be perfect for watching fireworks or capturing the beauty of a mountain vista. If your pet is afraid of fireworks and the noise that comes with New Year’s Eve, plan a getaway to a secluded Airbnb for the night. You can cuddle up together in the quiet and watch the ball drop, snuggle in front of a fireplace, or go outside and stargaze as you reflect on the year that’s past.

“Pawjama” Party

“Don’t let the jammies fool you, I’m a killer bichon.” Photo by BringFido

If a night in at home is more your style, put on some PJs, order a pizza and make it a New Year's to remember from the comfort of your own living room. Fido can get out his Dogbuster Card and a bucket of popcorn for a movie night, play games and work puzzles with you, or practice his tricks and skills with a new training clicker and treats.