Welcoming 2025: Keeping Your Pets Safe

By Mariana Burgos

The new year is a time for celebration, but it can also be a time of stress for both humans and pets. Loud noises, unfamiliar faces, and tempting treats can all contribute to a chaotic and potentially dangerous environment. This article provides tips on how to keep everyone safe and happy as you welcome the new year.

Keeping Your Pets Safe

For many pets, the new year’s celebrations can be a source of anxiety. Fireworks, loud music, and large crowds can all be overwhelming. It is important to take steps to ensure your pet’s safety and comfort.

Creating a Safe Space: For many pets, the new year’s festivities can be a source of anxiety. Loud noises, unfamiliar faces, and the general commotion can be overwhelming. Thus, creating a safe haven for your pet is crucial. This space should be a quiet, secure area where your pet can retreat from the chaos, and feel safe and comfortable. A crate, a room with minimal noise, or even a designated corner can serve as a safe space. “Provide a safe haven for your pet to retreat to,” suggests Tractive.com in their blog post “Pet Safety Tips for New Year’s Eve”.

This sanctuary should be equipped with familiar items that provide comfort and security. Soft bedding, favorite toys, and a fresh supply of food and water are essential. The presence of these familiar objects can help your pet feel more at ease and less anxious. Ensure the space is well-ventilated and free from drafts, as pets can become chilled easily.

Keeping Them Calm: The sounds of fireworks, loud music, and excited chatter can be incredibly stressful for pets. It is important to take steps to minimize their anxiety and promote a sense of calm. Calming aids, such as pheromone diffusers or calming treats, can be effective in reducing stress. These products release calming pheromones that mimic the natural calming signals produced by animals.

Consider using a calming vest or a snug-fitting blanket to provide comfort and security. The gentle pressure of these garments can help soothe your pet and reduce anxiety. Playing calming music or white noise can also help mask the sounds of fireworks and other festivities, creating a more peaceful environment for your pet.

Preventing Accidents: As you celebrate, it is essential to keep your pet’s safety in mind. Ensure your pet is wearing a secure collar and ID tag, and consider keeping them on a leash or in a fenced yard during outdoor gatherings. This will help prevent them from wandering off or getting lost in the commotion.

“Make sure your pet’s microchip is up to date,” advises the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) in their article “Preparing to Celebrate a Pet-Safe New Year’s Eve.” A microchip is a small, implantable device that contains your pet’s identification information. If your pet happens to escape, a microchip can help reunite them with you quickly and safely.

Avoiding Temptations: Food and Drinks

The new year’s celebrations often involve an abundance of food and drinks. However, many of these treats are harmful to pets.

Keeping It Out of Reach: Keep all food and drinks, especially alcohol, out of reach of your pets. Even small amounts of alcohol can be toxic to pets. “Chocolate, grapes, and raisins can be deadly to dogs,” warns Angry Orange in their blog post “NYE Survival: Keep Your Pet Safe.”

Be Mindful of Leftovers: Do not let your pet scavenge for scraps. Clean up any dropped food immediately. Avoid sharing your celebratory treats with your furry friends.

Staying Safe at Parties

If you are attending a party, consider leaving your pet at home in a safe and comfortable environment. If you do bring your pet, ensure they are properly secured and supervised at all times.

Socialization: Introduce your pet to new people and other pets slowly and calmly. Avoid overwhelming them with too much interaction.

Keeping Them Comfortable: Bring along familiar items, such as their bed or a favorite toy, to help them feel more at ease in a new environment. Make sure they have access to fresh water and a quiet place to retreat if they become overwhelmed.

Preparing for the Fireworks

Fireworks can be a source of great stress for pets, often causing anxiety and fear. To help your furry friend navigate the loud noises and bright lights, a little preparation can go a long way.

Desensitization: A Gentle Approach

Gradually introducing your pet to sounds similar to fireworks can help them acclimate to the noise. This process, known as desensitization, involves playing recordings or using apps that play firework sounds at low volumes. Start with short bursts of sound and gradually increase the duration and volume over time. This allows your pet to become accustomed to the sounds without experiencing overwhelming anxiety.

Staying Inside: Creating a Safe Haven

During firework displays, it is best to keep your pet indoors. Close all windows and curtains to minimize the noise and light coming from outside. Create a calming environment by playing soothing music or white noise. This can help mask the loud sounds of fireworks and provide a sense of comfort and security for your pet.

Distraction: Engaging Your Pet’s Attention

Engage your pet with interactive games or toys to distract them from the fireworks. This can help take their mind off the loud noises and provide a positive outlet for their energy. Consider using a calming vest or a snug-fitting blanket to provide additional comfort and security. These items can help create a sense of safety and reduce anxiety.

By following these tips, you can help your pet navigate the fireworks season with less stress and anxiety. Remember, a little preparation and understanding can make a big difference in creating a positive and enjoyable experience for your furry friend.

This article also appears in the Manila Standard

About the Author: Mariana Burgos is a freelance artist, writer, and tutor. She has been a solo parent for 17 years now because she is the wife of Jonas Burgos, a Filipino desaparecido. She and her daughter are animal lovers and are active in advocating not only human rights but the rights of animals as well.