Tips To Keep Pets Safe & Secure During New Year’s Eve Celebrations

(PS... those are my girls, Storm and Casey!)

It’s New Year’s Eve, the holiday when celebrations go late and get loud, especially when they include fireworks. They’re often a part of people ringing in the New Year, whether it’s huge displays put on by cities or neighbors setting them off all over town. While fireworks can be impressive to look at and exciting, they can be overwhelming for pets.

Some cats and dogs get so terrified, they end up running away in fear, as animal control agencies report an uptick in lost pets around major holidays involving fireworks. The combination of loud noises, unfamiliar guests and open doors can push some pets out of their comfort zones, leading them to escape. If you have a four-legged family member, these are some precautions that will help keep them safe and calm until things quiet down again tomorrow.

• Update identification - Before you pop open that bubbly and the festivities begin, make sure your pets are wearing collars with up-to-date ID tags. Confirm that their microchip info has your current phone number and address, too, as that will boost the chance of getting them back safely if they escape.
• Watch the boozy drinks and party food - If you’re hosting people at your place, remember that alcohol can be toxic to pets, and some foods are, too. Keep drinks where Fido and Fluffy can’t reach them and the same goes for potentially harmful foods like chocolate, onions, grapes and fatty leftovers.
• Create a quiet, secure space - Give your pet a comfortable area to retreat and relax away from the action and noise. A room with bedding, toys and soft background noise, like music or a TV, can help muffle fireworks and party noise so they feel calmer.
• Put up reminders on doors and gates - Make sure your guests know that pets can easily slip out of open doors and gates. Remind people to carefully check for cats and dogs when coming and going.
• Be mindful of outdoor heaters and grills - You know to keep your pets at a safe distance from these so they don’t get burned or injured accidentally, but make sure your tipsy party guests are also aware of the risk.

Source: Capitol City Now