Whilst celebrating New Year’s Eve with a blast might be a highlight for many people, loud events can be distressing for pets.

“Dogs have very sensitive ears – they hear 10 times better than humans, so fireworks can be terrifyingly loud and stressful for them,” RSPCA NSW Chief Veterinarian Liz Arnott said.

It is important to keep our pets in mind when making plans for New Year’s Eve as many animals, including dogs and horses, can be startled by fireworks displays.

Here are some tips to keep your pets safe and comfortable this New Year’s Eve:

• Ensure your pet has a microchip and an ID tag
• Keep your pets secured indoors if possible
• Remove any objects at home that could cause injury to a panicking animal
• Leave on the TV or radio to mask the sound of the fireworks
• If your pet is particularly prone to panic, stay home with them
• If your pet is particularly afraid of fireworks, consider visiting the vet to inquire about medication

Pets could potentially flee and injure themselves as they try to escape the noise.

Please contact your local council for assistance if you come across a wandering pet, or if your own pet goes missing over the festive period, as it may be at their local animal care facility.

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