New Year’s Eve Pet Safety Tips

While we humans love ringing in the new year with parties and fireworks, our furry friends often have a different take on the festivities. New Year's Eve pet safety should be a top priority for any pet parent — after all, no one wants to start their year with an emergency vet visit. From anxiety-inducing fireworks to potentially dangerous decorations, there's a lot to consider when it comes to keeping cats and dogs and New Year's Eve celebrations separate yet safe. 

• 1. Schedule a vet visit ahead of time
• 2. Make sure microchips and ID tags are updated
• 3. Exercise pets during the day
• 4. Keep food and drinks out of pet's reach
• 5. Create a cozy indoor space for pets
• 6. Avoid dangerous decor
• 7. Prepare for fireworks and loud music
• 8. Create an emergency plan
• FAQs
• Final Notes

1. Schedule a vet visit ahead of time

Before the holiday chaos begins, scheduling a check-up with your veterinarian can make all the difference in your pet's well-being during New Year's celebrations. This preventive step may be necessary if your pet has displayed signs of anxiety during previous holidays or fireworks displays.

Your veterinarian can assess your dog or cat's health and discuss various options to treat dog anxiety during the festivities. They might recommend specific behavior modification techniques tailored to your pet's personality and anxiety level.¹ 

In some cases, your vet may prescribe appropriate anti-anxiety medications that can help keep your pet calm during the celebrations. It's important to schedule this appointment well in advance, as veterinary clinics often experience high demand during the holiday season. 

During the visit, your vet can also identify any underlying health concerns that might worsen due to holiday stress and provide guidance on proper dosing if medication is prescribed.

2. Make sure microchips and ID tags are updated

When it comes to New Year's pet safety, proper identification can mean the difference between a quick reunion and a lengthy search for a lost pet. If you're not sure if your pet has a microchip, you can take them to the vet, who will scan them. If no microchip is found, you can add one. Once you've verified your pet has a microchip, you'll want to verify that all registration information is current and accurate. 

Contact your microchip company to confirm they have your latest phone number, address, and emergency contact information. Beyond microchipping, inspect your pet's ID tags for wear and tear, ensuring they're securely attached to a sturdy collar. The information on these tags should be easily readable and include your current phone number and address. 

Even typically calm pets can become disoriented and attempt to flee during loud celebrations. Having the proper ID on them at all times is necessary for their safe return.

3. Exercise pets during the day

Exercise can help dogs eliminate their excess energy,² helping them calm down easier during the New Year's Eve festivities. Plan for an extended morning walk or play session, taking advantage of the quieter daylight hours before the evening's festivities begin. 

This extra exercise can help burn off excess energy and promote better rest during the potentially stressful evening hours.² Consider a longer walk than usual, incorporating both physical exercise and mental stimulation through training exercises or interactive play. 

Remember to follow Winter pet safety tips if you live in a cold climate, including limiting outdoor time based on temperature and weather conditions. Watch for signs that your pet is getting too cold, such as shivering, whining, or lifting paws off the ground. Indoor exercise alternatives can be equally effective. Playing fetch in a long hallway, creating an indoor obstacle course, or engaging in training sessions can provide both physical and mental stimulation.

4. Keep food and drinks out of pet's reach

New Year's Eve celebrations typically involve an array of foods and beverages that can pose serious risks to your pets. Many common party foods contain ingredients that are toxic to animals, such as onion, garlic, chocolate, and artificial sweeteners.³ 

Create a designated pet-free zone for party food and drinks, communicating clearly with guests about keeping these items out of reach of your pets. Party leftovers can be equally dangerous, so ensure all plates and cups are cleared promptly and garbage bins are secured. 

Some pets might be skilled at counter surfing or stealing food when owners are distracted, so consider keeping them in a separate room during food service and cleanup. If you want to include your pet in the celebration, prepare pet-safe treats in advance and portion them out carefully to avoid overfeeding.

5. Create a cozy indoor space for pets

Creating a sanctuary space for your pet during holiday celebrations is essential for their comfort and safety. Select a quiet room or area away from the main party activities, preferably in a space your pet already associates with comfort and security. This area should be equipped with their favorite bed or blanket, positioned away from external walls where noise might be more noticeable. 

Fresh water should be readily available, and the temperature should be comfortable. Familiar toys and comfort items can help maintain a sense of normalcy. If you're using a white noise machine or calming music, introduce these elements several days before the celebration so your pet associates them with relaxation. 

Cats should have access to elevated spaces, and their litter boxes should be placed away from their food and water.

6. Avoid dangerous decor

New Year's decorations can pose significant hazards to curious pets. String decorations are particularly dangerous for cats, who may be tempted to play with and potentially ingest them, leading to serious intestinal problems. 

Balloons can cause choking hazards if punctured and ingested, while the strings attached to them can lead to strangulation risks. While festive for humans, noisemakers can startle pets and potentially become chewing hazards. Confetti may seem harmless but can cause digestive issues or blockages if ingested. Party poppers and glowsticks contain chemicals that can be toxic if chewed or broken open. 

The safest approach is to decorate areas your pet cannot access or to choose pet-friendly alternatives. Use LED candles instead of real ones, secure all hanging decorations well above pet reach, and immediately clean up any fallen or broken decorative items.

Be mindful of small decorative items that could become choking hazards, especially for puppies and kittens who naturally explore with their mouths.

7. Prepare for fireworks and loud music

Just like during the 4th of July, New Year's Eve celebrations can create intense anxiety for many pets. The unexpected and loud noises from fireworks, music, and party horns can trigger fear responses in even the most well-adjusted animals.⁴ 

Here's how you can prepare your pet for New Year's Eve fireworks and loud celebrations:

• Window prep: Close all windows and add heavy curtains or blackout shades to muffle sudden noises and block bright flashes that could startle your pet. This creates a solid first line of defense against outdoor disturbances.
• Sound masking: Turn on calming music or white noise machines, or keep the TV running at a normal volume to create familiar background noise. This helps drown out unexpected booms and crashes from outside.
• Safe room setup: Create a cozy space away from external walls and windows where sound travels more intensely. Pick a room your pet already feels comfortable in and add their favorite bed or blanket.
• Training preparation: Start sound desensitization training weeks before the holiday by playing recorded firework sounds at low volumes while offering treats and praise. Once your pet seems calm, you can gradually increase the volume to help them get more comfortable with louder sounds.
• Vet-approved solutions: Talk to your veterinarian about calming aids appropriate for your pet's size and anxiety level. Never give any medication without professional guidance, even if it works for another pet.

8. Create an emergency plan

Despite taking precautions for pet safety on New Year's Eve, emergencies can still arise, so thorough preparation is essential.

Here's how to create a comprehensive emergency plan for your pet this New Year's Eve:

• Know who to call: Save all essential phone numbers in your contacts, including your regular vet, their after-hours emergency line, and multiple 24-hour emergency veterinary clinics in your area. Some clinics may be closed or at capacity during holidays, so having backup options is crucial.
• Be prepared for injuries: Put together a comprehensive pet first-aid kit. Take time to understand what constitutes a true emergency versus what can wait for regular vet hours.
• Prepare your emergency contacts: Maintain an updated list of reliable pet sitters and friends who can help in a crisis. Make sure they're familiar with your pet's routine and any special medical needs they might have.
• Create detailed care instructions for pets: Write out detailed information about your pet's daily routine, including feeding schedules, medication timing, and any unique behavioral quirks. This ensures any temporary caregiver can maintain your pet's routine in an emergency.

FAQs

What are the biggest dangers to pets on New Year's Eve?

Some of the most common dangers to pets on New Year's Eve are: 

• Escape attempts: Panicked pets may bolt when startled by fireworks, even if they're normally calm. Ensure ID tags and microchips are updated.
• Toxic foods and drinks: Holiday foods containing onions, chocolate, and artificial sweeteners can be poisonous.
• Party decorations: Streamers, balloons, and noisemakers can become choking hazards if chewed or swallowed. Glass ornaments may cut sensitive paws.
• Stress-related issues: The noise and commotion can cause anxiety, digestive problems, and excessive panting.
• Weather dangers: If pets escape, they face risks like hypothermia in cold weather and disorientation from fireworks.

Can I give my dog or cat a sedative before NYE?

Never give your pet any medication without veterinary supervision — even over-the-counter options can be dangerous. Join Dutch to connect with licensed vets who can evaluate your pet's anxiety level and prescribe appropriate treatments if needed. They'll consider your pet's specific needs and help create a safe anxiety management plan for the celebrations.

How can I safely include my pet in my NYE celebrations?

Just because you're ringing in the new year doesn't mean your furry friend has to miss out on the fun. Here are some ways to keep your pet included while ensuring their comfort and safety:

• Plan special activities during quieter daytime hours when your pet is naturally more relaxed.
• Create pet-safe holiday snacks or fill enrichment toys with their favorite treats. 
• Set up a peaceful room where your pet can still feel included while having space to retreat.
• Keep your gathering small and intimate with only pet-friendly guests who respect boundaries.
• Take regular breaks from the party to spend quality time with your pet and monitor their stress levels. 
• Consider celebrating "midnight" early, before the real fireworks and noise begin.

Final Notes

Understanding New Year's Eve pet safety tips and preparing accordingly helps ensure a peaceful celebration for both you and your pets. While there are many myths about pet anxiety and holiday safety, education, and preparation can help you avoid emergencies. 

If you're concerned about your pet's anxiety levels or need personalized guidance for the holiday season, join Dutch to connect with licensed veterinarians who can create a tailored plan for your pet's needs. Our professionals are available to help before, during, and after the celebrations to ensure your pet stays happy and healthy as you ring in the new year.