Arizona Humane Society has tips to keep pets safe this 'howliday'

The holidays are a busy time of year for animal shelters across Arizona. Here's more on what you can do to keep furry family members safe.

There’s a lot going on between now and the end of the year — holiday guests, out-of-town family or friends and of course, noise. Lots of noise — especially on New Year’s Eve. So how do you keep pets safe?

The Arizona Humane Society suggests starting with your holiday decorations. Skip glass ornaments and tinsel, secure your Christmas tree and keep lights and cords up high and away from curious paws. Give pets a safe, quiet space away from the festivities, and don’t forget fresh water, bedding and toys.

And when fireworks start going off, keep pets indoors and distracted. Bursts of bright flashing lights can frighten pets and they might try to escape.

More tips from Arizona Humane Society

Oh, Christmas tree: When decorating your tree, use plastic ornaments rather than glass, securely anchor your tree, don’t use tinsel and cover the water of the tree with tinfoil or a blanket so that your pet can’t drink it. Additionally, keep Christmas lights up high and out of reach of your animals as loose wires can be harmful to your pets if they get entangled or try to chew on them.

Create a safe space: Give pets a safe, quiet space with fresh water, bedding and toys. If your pet prefers their kennel, make sure it is easily accessible and away from the festivities.

Travel safety tips: If travelling with your pets, make sure ID tags and microchips are updated with correct contact information. Make sure to bring plenty of your pet’s medication or special food and make sure to research animal clinics and hospitals in the area you are staying at in case of emergency and never leave your pet unattended in a vehicle.