How to Keep Pets Safe on New Year’s Eve

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If you’re a pet owner you probably have a love/hate relationship with New Year’s Eve. It’s so fun! And wow, isn’t it a major inconvenience?! That’s right. New Year’s Eve can be a waking nightmare for dogs and cats, and thus, also awful for pet owners.

Pets also might not enjoy fireworks or having guests over at your home. This fear doesn’t just make animals miserable, it can also be a danger. They go into fight or flight mode and are more prone to getting lost. Here are ways to keep your animals happy(ish) and safe on New Year’s Eve.

Microchip

Make sure your pet is microchipped. It significantly increases your animal’s chances of getting home if you’re separated. Have your pet microchipped at your vet or local clinic. 

Collar

If you end up separated from your pet, there are several ways to maximize your chances of getting your dog or cat back home. The first step you need to take is getting your pet external ID. Your animal needs a well-fitting collar. You shouldn’t be able to fit more than two fingers between the collar and your pet’s neck.

ID Tag

Then hang an ID tag with your dog or cat’s name and your phone number from the collar. 

Enclosure

The loud noises, rumbles and bright lights are just too much for canines and felines alike. And if they’re on the shy side, they might also hate the appearance of party guests. With people frequently entering and exiting your home, there’s a chance a skittish pet could dash out the door. Diminish those odds by keeping your pet enclosed in a room that won’t see any foot traffic. Keep the room’s door closed until the festivities are over and your dog or cat is calm.

Leash

If you aren’t leaving your dog or cat in an enclosed room, considering keeping them on a leash. Yes, you can even keep your cat on a leash. It’s a simple way to keep your pet from running out their door in a fit of panic. You can double your chances of keeping your animal from getting lost by double-leashing. Instead of using one leash, use two. You can even attach one of the leashes to a belt loop. You also might want to consider putting a harness on your pet in addition to a collar. Some animals prefer the feel of a harness over that of a collar.

ThunderShirt

Try putting a ThunderShirt on your dog or cat if they really hate fireworks. These weighted vests work similar to swaddling a baby or giving someone a comforting hug. They are quite effective for some pets. ThunderShirts are available in several sizes and collars so you can find the perfect one for your cat or dog.

Use common sense and your pet will have a relatively pleasant and safe New Year’s Eve!