Because pets are family, keeping pets safe during the holidays is just as important as the celebration itself. Today we’re sharing how to keep pets safe and stress-free on New Year’s Eve. With these tips, we hope you and your loved ones will enjoy New Year’s Eve to the fullest and your pets will remain safe and sound at home.
Check ID Tags
Up-to-date ID tags are imperative for a safe return if your pet happens to get out. In most cases, a neighbor is likely to find your pet but may not know how to reach you. Opt for easy-to-read, durable tags as some tags can be hard to read.
Make sure your pet is wearing their collar with ID tags before festivities begin. For a dog collar, you should be able to slide two fingers between the collar and your dog’s neck. The collar should feel snug but not tight. For cats, the collar should be tight enough that it won’t slide over the cat’s head, but loose enough that it won’t choke him or her. We prefer break-away cat collars because they will unattach off if your cat gets himself into mischief.
Get & Update Microchips
We recommend that all pets have a microchip. Microchips have been proven safe when used long-term. They may also be the most reliable resource to bring your pet home if they get lost.
Always be sure your microchip registration is updated to your current address, phone number, and email. If you aren’t sure, find your microchip company and registration number by asking your vet to scan your pet at their next appointment.
Take a Photo of Your Pet
Take a cute holiday photo of your pets this week. Not only will a recent photograph provide fond memories to look back on in the future, it’ll be a great resource if your pet gets lost. For instance, should you have to make signs and show a photo to a search party should your pet accidentally get lost, this photo will be recent and, therefore, most effective.
Bring Pets Indoors
If you have an outdoor pet, bring them in on New Year’s Eve. Set them up in a safe garage or shed. Baby proof your home or stay home to keep an eye on your pet during the commotion.
Whatever you do, do not leave outdoor dogs out in the yard or tie them up somewhere outdoors. Outdoor dogs have been known to run away in fear. Tied dogs can get frenzied and tangle themselves, choking or injuring a limb in panic.
Create a Safe Indoor Space
Whether you’re having a party at home or going out with friends, set up a space for your pets where they can be protected from the fireworks and activity. Include food and fresh water, hide some treats under pillows or cushions to keep them engaged, and gather up their favorite toys. Consider keeping a TV or radio on to drown out some of the noise. Research shows that classical music and reggae both soothe nervous dogs.
Year-Round Tip: Some of our clients set their Alexa and Google Home devices on a timer for daily serenades while they’re at work. It’s a great way to soothe your pet with little effort.
Hire a Trusted Pet Care Provider to Check on Your Pets
If you’re going out and have a neighborhood that sets off a lot of fireworks, hire a pet sitter to check on your pets while you’re out. Pets can get into a whole lot of trouble at home alone, especially when scared. Hiring a professional pet sitter is a great idea to make sure they stay safe while you have a good time. While a friend or neighbor might be willing to do this for you, a professional pet sitter will have more tools in their toolkit to ensure your pets and home are safe during noisy holidays like New Year’s Eve.
No one wants to start the New Year in a panic or with worry, especially not our pets. There’s no need to worry about keeping your pets safe this holiday season if you know a few handy tips to keep them protected.
And, as the new year approaches, make sure you have a trusted pet sitter on your pet care team. As professional pet sitters, our team at Animal Admiration Pet Sitting cares for cats, dogs and small animals using the most gentle, positive methods. We prioritize their mental, physical, and emotional wellbeing and ensure your peace of mind no matter what your busy life throws your way.
Learn more about our dog walking and pet sitting services and contact us by email at info@animaladmiration.com or by phone at (281) 391-1015 with questions. We ask for at least a couple of weeks’ notice for new client registration, especially around the holidays.
Animal Admiration currently serves the following areas of Houston:
Katy, Fulshear, Richmond, Energy Corridor, Memorial, West Houston, Cypress
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