As fireworks ring in the new year, the noisy celebrations to mark 2024 can spark panic in pets.
As the year comes to a close, there will undoubtedly be celebrations with the hopes for a better new year. While your pets may have enjoyed having you home, most people are eager to see what the future holds and celebrate accordingly. So here are some helpful considerations for keeping your four-legged family members safe and happy as you indulge in New Year's Eve celebrations.
-Be Wary of Fireworks
It's well known that the 4th of July is one of the most common times for pets to get lost. People often gather in large groups and send off fireworks, which can be terrifying for some dogs. New Year's Eve is another one of those times that people love to celebrate with noisemakers which can lead to a dog or cat fleeing in a panic.
-Keep Your Pet in a Quiet Room
If you're planning on celebrating New Year's Eve with a large crowd and fireworks display, be sure to accommodate your pet(s) by providing a quiet space for them, away from all the noise. Ensure the room is escape-proof and has adequate bedding, toys, and water. Some animals may even benefit from background noise such as a radio or TV to help lessen the intensity of voices and noisemakers.
-Medications might help
Overly anxious pets might benefit from prescription medication to lessen their anxiety. Meds aimed at relieving noise phobias are routinely dispensed around Independence Day. Still, it's also common to celebrate the New Year with fireworks as well. Talk with your veterinarian if you believe a calming medication might benefit your furry family member.
-ID Tags & Microchips
Of course, it is possible that despite your safety precautions, your pet may still manage to escape and get lost. In this case, it is vital to have up-to-date identification on your pet. Collars with tags and a valid contact number are crucial. In addition, consider microchipping as an excellent addition to a tag.
Please ensure your microchip information is current by entering the number in the American Animal Hospital Association's microchip finder. Some microchip companies might charge extra to update your information, but doing so is crucial to improving your chances of being reunited with your pet.
-Keep Your Pet Away From Food & Alcohol
But what do you do about the pets who are just regular party animals? For these extroverted furry friends who want to be the party's focal point, make sure they don't get into the party foods that might be dangerous for them.
Do not let your pet eat the following foods:
Grapes and raisins – can cause kidney failure
Chocolate – can lead to seizures and death
Macadamia Nuts – can cause muscle tremors
Onions and garlic - can be toxic to dogs.
Fatty foods - can lead to pancreatitis when consumed in large amounts.
And what would a New Year's Eve party be without copious amounts of bubbly and a toast at midnight? Just be sure to keep all alcoholic beverages away from your furry friends.
This list is, of course, not all-inclusive. Please consult your veterinarian for more in-depth information!
Celebrating the end of one year and the new beginning can be a memorable and exciting time. Planning your New Year's Eve party with pet safety in mind can help you celebrate safely with your furry family members and is sure to be a great start to the new year.
Wishing you and all of your family members a safe and Happy New Year!
Piper
Piper is the award-winning author of The Country Girl Empress series. When she isn't busy typing on her computer, she can be found chasing after her furry children or holding on tightly to a good cup of coffee. Follow her on LinkedIn, Facebook, Medium, and Goodreads.
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