For most people, New Year’s Eve is a fun night to celebrate with family and friends! But it might not be so fun for your pets… Here are some safety tips you can follow to help make New Year’s Eve as safe and uneventful as possible for your pets.
Collar and ID Tag
In the event you and your pet become separated on New Year’s Eve, a collar with a proper ID tag will help to maximize the chance you and your pet are reunited. A good collar should be snug but not too tight, so aim for being able to fit two fingers between your pet’s neck and collar.
Microchip
If your pet’s collar were to come off, the best way to ensure reunion in case of escape is a microchip. Microchips are a permanent form of identification that can’t be removed or lost. Your pet’s microchip number is specific to them and any shelter or vet’s office will be able to scan for a chip.
Environment
Making sure your pet is in a safe environment on New Year’s Eve is important, whether you’ll be home with them or not. If you won’t be home, make sure they feel comfortable and are in a safe, comfortable spot. Consider putting on some light music to drown out the noises of the night. Give them their favorite toys or treats and don’t forget to remove anything that could be harmful to your pet, like medications, plants, food, etc.
Guests
If you’re planning to have guests over for New Year’s Eve and have pets who are on the shy side, they may prefer to be in their own space away from guests and loud music. Alcohol, marijuana, and many types of food can all pose harm to your pet, so ensure your guests are aware to keep these things away from them.
Loud Noises
While not as popular for fireworks asthe 4th of July, some people do occasionally set them off on New Year’s Eve. Others may use poppers and noisemakers that could stress your pet. So make sure your pet has a sanctuary away from the loud noises and if needed, a thundershirt to help keep them calm. As mentioned above, you can also put on soft music to drown out the louder noises outside.
Spending New Year’s Eve With Your Pets
Maybe you’re more of a homebody and prefer the company of your pets on New Year’s Eve. Here are some things you can do that both you and your pet might enjoy to bring in the New Year:
- Watch the ball drop on TV!
- Have a movie night snuggled up on the couch.
- Bake some treats for yourself AND your pup. There are recipes online for pet safety baked goods.
We hope these tips help you and your pet to have a fun and safe New Year’s Eve!
