If you have pets at home, remember to keep your pet’s safety in mind this New Year’s Eve. This can be a stressful time for them with all the noise and people coming and going. While some pets may be perfectly fine with all that, a lot of pets don’t do well and their instinct is to run and hide from it all. To keep your pet safe over the New Year holiday, here are some helpful pet safety tips:

Keep your pet indoors

Ideally, you would crate your pet. But if that’s not possible, keep them in a quiet room with the door closed. Give them access to food, water, and a few toys – and a litter box, for cats. That way, your pup or kitty won’t run off or scoot out the front door when people come in or out.

Walking the dog

Keep your dog leashed when going outside – even if it’s in your own yard. Loud noises from fireworks can scare him and he may want to jump/climb the fence to get out and away. Many pets get hit by cars when running to find a quiet place to hide outside.

Consider medication

If your pet is nervous, anxious, or fearful, consider asking your vet to prescribe something for anxiety. Medication, when used in combination with crating or a quiet room, will help your pet calm down and feel safe.

Multiple pets

If you have more than one pet, make sure you don’t put them together in the same crate. If they rely on each other for comfort, crate them separately but put them in the same room where they can see, hear, and smell each other. Putting more than one animal in a single crate can result in fights, injuries, and possibly worse – even among pets who normally get along.

Moderate your own behavior

With all the parties and excitement going on, it’s easy to get caught up in the spirit of the occasion. If you’re going to be out overnight, make arrangements for your pet’s safety by having someone stay with your pets. Or board them. Remember – your pet is depending on you to provide a calm, safe environment. Keep your pet’s safety in mind this New Year’s Eve. Drink in moderation, and don’t drink and drive.

Hopefully, these pet safety tips will help you and your pet have a safe and happy New Year!

*for more information and safety tips, contact your vet or the Jackson County Animal Protection Society.