Updated at 7:48 p.m., Tuesday, December 25, 2007
Humane Society issues New Year's Eve pet tips
Advertiser Staff
The Hawaiian Humane Society reminds people that New Year's celebrations can frighten pets and they may become lost if outdoors.
The society encourages the following precautions:
Ensure that your pets have identification. More than 400 animals were reported lost during last year's holiday season. Animals found running at-large should be taken to the Humane Society's 24-hour animal intake center, where they will have the best chance of being reunited with their owners.
Call 946-2187 immediately if your pet is lost. Having current photos of your pet is also helpful. For dogs, a license is proof of ownership and should be attached to his collar.
Resist taking your pet to fireworks displays. Most animals don't enjoy the holiday's noisy spectacles.
Keep your companion animal in a safe place indoors. Some animals can become destructive when frightened, so be sure that you've removed any items that your pet could destroy or that would be harmful to your pet if chewed on. Leave a radio or television on at normal volume to provide him or her with some companionship while you're attending the picnics and parades. If you can't keep your pet indoors, consider keeping him in an enclosed garage.
If possible, do not leave pets outside and unattended, even in a fenced yard or on a chain. Animals may panic, escape and get lost, or become injured by becoming entangled in their chain.
If you know that your pet is seriously distressed by loud noises like thunder, consult with your veterinarian before New Year's Eve for ways to help alleviate the fear and anxiety he or she will experience during fireworks displays. Do not give your Don't leave your pet in the car. In addition to the danger posed by pet thieves, cars can heat up to a deadly temperature in minutes, even with windows partially opened.
For more information, call 356-2212 or e-mail hhs@hawaiianhumane.org to request updates.
