Keep Fido Safe During New Years Eve Fireworks

HOUSTON, TX — The pop of fireworks are part of celebrating the start of a brand new year, but if you have a dog or a cat, the noise can cause a lot of anxiety, especially for dogs.

We’ve all heard stories of dogs that get loose and run off into the dark after they have become startled and scared by the fireworks, resulting in the dog becoming lost, or in the worst case, hit and killed by a car.

If your pet is scared or becomes anxious or agitated around loud noises, such as fireworks, it’s best to keep them indoors where they are safe.

However, if your pet is still anxious because of the noise, there are tips from the ASPCA to keep them calm until the fireworks have ended.

• Music: Sometimes, soothing music may help calm your anxious pet
• Move to another room: Cats tent to hide when they are scared, so moving a dog to a room with no windows and turning on a fan to drown out the fireworks may help.
• Anxiety Vest: You can purchase this at a pet supply store if you don’t have one, or just put a snug t-shirt on your dog, may help in some cases.
• Medication: Your veterinarian may prescribe anxiety medication such as xanax for your dog, and it is always best to give your pet a small dose of the medication a day or two before New Years Eve to see how they react or respond.
• Keep them indoors: A dog or cat who is frightened by the noise will be safer if they are far away from the source of their anxiety.
• Food and Water: A dog will pant when anxious and can dehydrate quickly when they are in a panic, so have plenty of food and water on hand.
• Talk to your dog: Your dog needs your reassurance when he or she is anxious, and you can give them that just by talking to them.

If your pet is out and about during this time and you are not at home, make sure your pet is microchipped and has his or her tags so they can be returned home safely.

Image: Bryan Kirk/Patch Staff

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