As New Year’s Eve celebrations approach, Austin Animal Services is reminding pet owners that the noise and activity associated with the holiday can be stressful for animals. Fireworks, in particular, can cause anxiety and lead pets to behave unpredictably.

To help keep pets calm and secure, the animal care team offers several recommendations:

• Create a Safe Space: Prepare a quiet indoor area with familiar items such as a pet bed, toys, and calming music to help reduce outside noise.
• Keep Pets Indoors: Even typically relaxed pets may panic during fireworks. Ensure all doors, windows, and gates are securely closed.
• Update Identification: Make sure your pet’s ID tags and microchip information are current to improve the chances of a safe return if they become lost.
• Provide Comfort: Pets often respond to their owners’ emotions. Staying calm, speaking softly, and offering reassurance can help ease their stress.
• Avoid Fireworks Events: Large crowds, bright lights, and loud noises can be overwhelming for animals, so it’s best to leave pets at home.

Austin Animal Services will close at 5 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 31, and will reopen to the public on Friday, Jan. 2, for Walk-In Adoption and Reclaim services from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.