New Year's Eve brings plenty of revelry and celebration. But for pets, this often means an abundance of noise, new people in the home, and other factors that can make them feel scared or unsafe. Follow these four veterinarian-approved tips to make pet safety a priority this New Year's Eve.

A Pet Safety Guide for New Year's Eve

1. Keep Pets Indoors

Many dogs and cats are easily spooked by jarring or loud noises, and New Year's Eve is full of them. There are groups of people talking and laughing, music playing, and one of the scariest sounds for pets: fireworks.

To minimize these disturbances, keep your pets indoors for the duration of the New Year's Eve celebrations. Make sure that all windows are closed or have secure screens in place. Periodically check that all doors leading outside are tightly shut, including balcony and patio doors.

2. Update Your Pet's Identification

Before New Year's Eve, check that your pet's identification is up to date with your latest contact information. In case they run away during the bustling festivities, this precaution will help return them to you.

Ideally, all pets should be both microchipped and wear ID tags on their collars. Call the microchip registry and confirm that they have your current address and phone number. If your pet isn't microchipped, your veterinarian can implant one quickly and easily.

3. Get Plenty of Exercise

Take your dog out for a long walk or engage your cat in an extended playtime before any New Year's festivities. This will help them vent any built-up tension and be more relaxed for the evening ahead. They may even fall asleep and snooze through the party or the fireworks.

4. Give Pets a Safe Space

If you're planning a party for New Year's Eve or you know that fireworks are going to be set off in the neighborhood, make sure all pets have a safe space.

Cats often like to hide under beds or other pieces of heavy furniture, so designate one bedroom as theirs for the evening.

If your dog has a crate, keep it in a spot where they can remain safely removed from the festivities.

For pets with anxiety issues, a safe space may not be enough. In this case, consult a veterinarian to explore medications or all-natural solutions, like certain essential oils or anxiety clothing wraps.

As you consider ways to protect your pet this New Year's Eve, also make sure they’re up to date on all shots and in good general health. The veterinarians at Wahiawa Pet Hospital are here to help. Since 1972, they’ve served the area companion animals with wellness exams, dog and cat vaccinations, pet dentistry services, and many other care options. Call (808) 621-7000 to make an appointment, or visit them online to check out their full list of services.