Believe it or not, it’s almost time to ring out 2013 and ring in 2014.  In just a few short hours it’ll be a new year!  You can bet there will be plenty of parties and lots of noisemakers when the clock strikes midnight.  So let’s not take the term”party animals” literally.  You need to be especially protective of your dog and cat tonight.  New Year’s Eve is a time of year when lots of pets get scared of all the noise and fireworks and bolt.  Here are few tips to make sure your best friend stays home tonight:

• Make sure your pet is wearing a collar with identification tags.  The pet’s name and a current phone number are ideal.  If your pet is microchipped, please take a few minutes to make sure your information with the microchip company is current.  We see dogs and cats come in all of the time with microchips, but with old information making it next to impossible to find their owners.
• Keep your pet indoors in a quiet area.  You want them to feel safe and sound.  Make sure your buddy has plenty of fresh water and give dogs a few chew toys (mine LOVE their peanut butter-filled Kong toys, especially if I freeze them).  Dogs who are crate trained may feel safest in their kennels.  Cats will do best in a bathroom or utility room with food, water and their litter box.
• If left outdoors, frightened dogs often jump high fences and dig holes to escape the sound of fireworks. Indoor animals should be kept away from glass windows or doors.  Some are capable of crashing right through glass if they get scared.
• If you’re hosting a party, keep your pet in a separate room.  Even friendly dogs and cats can get overwhelmed.
• As always, make sure to keep all alcohol, festive foods/chocolates, floral arrangements and party decorations away from your pets.

A New Year is definitely something to be celebrated, but your pet doesn’t need to be a part of the part.  Be safe and HAPPY NEW YEAR!