New Year’s fireworks are fun for people, but not for pets. Here’s how to keep them safe.
As we get closer to ringing in the New Year, fireworks will start popping off in our communities. Fireworks are frightening to some animals and can cause them to go into flight mode because they want to run away from the loud bangs, booms and bright flashes of lights. This is why we see so many lost pets following New Year’s Eve festivities.
Even animals that normally are tolerant of lights or loud sounds such as lightning and thunder can become anxious when they hear fireworks. Dogs will jump over, dig under or even bust through fences and may run out of open doors. If there is a way to escape, fearful pets will find a way to do it.
Dogs experiencing fireworks-induced anxiety may show it in a variety of ways. It’s important to recognize the signs that a pet may be feeling stressed, including panting, shaking, pacing, hiding, trying to escape, whining or barking, decreased appetite, drooling, accidents in the house, dilated pupils or wide eyes and vomiting.
Every year, I write about fireworks because every year without fail, my social networks are flooded with posts of lost and found animals on Jan. 1.
Let’s make 2025 different and help reduce the number of lost pets as we ring in the New Year. Here are some ways to help do that.
1. LEAVE PETS AT HOME: It is never a good idea to take the dog to a fireworks display or to have them outside when setting off fireworks. Even for dogs that are not scared, some have been known to chase and try to catch fireworks and, as a result, can be seriously injured.
2. KEEP PETS INSIDE: Provide pets with a safe, quiet and secure area within the house. This is especially important if no one will be home with the pet. Turning up the television or radio to help buffer the noise from outside will also help minimize stress. A fun chew toy or Kong filled with a yummy treat can also be a great distraction.
3. START NOW: Fireworks often start popping a few days before and last several days after New Year’s Eve. It is best to start taking extra precautions now by adjusting the regular routines. Double leash the dogs for walks. Use a harness for extra security. Walk into the yard with the pets, even if the yard is secure. If a dog is nervous, he will likely avoid going outside once the festivities have started, so make sure all potty breaks are taken before the action begins.
4. PROPER ID IS IMPORTANT: Make sure pets are always wearing collars and ID tags with up-to-date information. This is a good time get the pets microchipped and registered with your current contact information. My dog, Stewie, is 17 years old and also wears an air tag for an extra level of security because he is deaf and losing his eyesight.
5. PICK UP DEBRIS: After the celebrations come to an end, check the yard for firework debris so pets do not ingest anything they aren’t supposed to.
6. TALK TO YOUR VET: In severe cases, seek advice from a veterinarian for the best plan of action to reduce pet anxiety. The last thing anyone wants is for a dog in distress to be roaming the streets.
Events
DEC. 28: Petsmart Home for the Holidays adoption event takes place from noon to 4 p.m. at 6851 Veterans Blvd., Metairie. Meet adoptable puppies and dogs from ARNO. All approved adopters will receive a coupon book from Petsmart. For more info, email adopt@animalrescueneworleans.org.
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