by Loree Walden, Marketing Manager, Yavapai Humane Society
It’s hard to believe, but New Year’s Eve is right around the corner, and there’s going to be a lot of activity and noise! While it’s all fun and exciting for us, it can be quite scary and potentially dangerous for our pets.
The safest place for your pets during the festivities is inside. The fireworks, noise and crowds may spook them and make them run away, get lost, or even be hit by a car.
The best thing is to put them in a familiar room with things that comfort them such as a favorite toy, their bed, and/or a blanket. It also helps to put on some calming music or the TV to help cover up the sound of fireworks or festivities. Maybe even give them a Kong toy filled with a special treat to keep them occupied while reaping a yummy reward.
Also consider a Thunder Shirt or a similar product like Calm Paws Relax and Recover Shirt for your dog. These are great for added mental and emotional support when it comes to thunder, fireworks, separation anxiety, and more. They’re available from our friends over at PetSmart for about $20 to $40.
Some dogs are not affected by the sounds and people, but if you do have them out with you, be sure you don’t use fireworks directly around your pets. There is potential of burns and injuries to their paws and face, and the noise of fireworks going off so close to them may cause ear damage or cause them to freak out.
Make sure your pet is microchipped and the information is correct and up to date.
Always keep a close eye on your pets around food and alcohol. Avoid letting them get near any chocolate, nuts, grapes, raisins, onion, mushrooms, fatty foods, coffee, tea, caffeine and most of all alcohol of any sort.
With a little extra care and precautions, we can ensure that it will be a Happy New Year for everyone! Happy New Year from all of us at Yavapai Humane Society.