Mimi disappeared: Please help us find the dog before New Year's Eve!

Mimi disappeared: Please help us find the dog before New Year's Eve!

New Year's Eve is just around the corner, and with it comes concern for our four-legged companions. In Vienna the situation for the dog “Mimi” has developed dramatically. On December 23, 2023, fearing a loud bang, she escaped from her chest harness in Flotowgasse, 1190 Vienna. Despite immediate search efforts by her family, she has so far remained missing. She was last seen near Billa in the 19th district. Relatives and animal rights activists are worried that Mimi and possibly many other dogs could panic and run away in desperation in the next few hours. Clues to their possible whereabouts lead to Grinzing, Neustift, Sievering, the vineyards, the Grinzing cemetery, Kaasgraben, Himmelstraße and Bellvuewiese. If you see anything, please contact 0664 911 35 40 immediately to help the dog. The animal protection association Hunde-Such-Hilfe is also available to support animals in need.

But this story is not an isolated case and reflects a widespread problem. According to an analysis by the dog community app Dogorama, New Year's Eve fireworks are a main reason for dogs running away. Cities like Berlin, Hamburg and Frankfurt am Main top the list. In Berlin, there were 493 recorded cases of lost dogs during New Year's Eve 2024/2025, while data from the last four years shows that a total of 428 dogs went missing in Germany. The distraction of the loud bangs can cause dogs to have a panic attack, causing them to break free of their harnesses or run away. Many dog ​​owners in this country can tell you a thing or two about it - many dogs are also at risk in Vienna.

Signs of Anxiety in Dogs

When the fireworks go off, the symptoms of anxiety in dogs are often unmistakable: shaking, panting, whining and barking are particularly common. A crouched posture, dilated pupils and a tucked tail can also be serious indications that your beloved four-legged friend is suffering from stress. The vicious circle continues: the unfamiliar smell of fireworks can trigger negative memories and further increase fear.

Tips for dog owners

What can dog owners do to protect their furry friends? Experts recommend taking an early walk in quiet areas on New Year's Day and double-protecting dogs by using both a chest harness and a double-leash collar. Free running should be avoided on this day to prevent escape.

In addition, it is advisable to close the windows and draw the curtains to minimize noise pollution within your own four walls. Many dogs also benefit from a familiar background noise, which can be generated by television or radio. If the fear is based on extreme reactions, it might make sense to consult a veterinarian with experience in animal behavior. Some dogs may even refuse food or exhibit other health problems in their panic.

Given the terrible experiences that many dogs have on New Year's Eve, the hope remains that "Mimi" will be found soon and that others can avoid a sad fate. The community and animal welfare organizations such as Hunde-Such-Hilfe are ready to support the affected dogs. Let us work together to ensure that the start of the new year is as peaceful as possible for everyone – people and animals.