Although many Arizonans ring in the new year with fireworks, the loud booms are a concern for pet owners and animal shelters. The noise can panic animals and lead them to run away.
Maricopa County Animal Care and Control recommends people microchip their pets to make it easier to find them if they get lost.
Joe Casados is with the Arizona Humane Society
“The county shelters really see a large increase in pets coming in lost in the days after because fireworks are very big in Arizona,” he said.
Casados also suggests keeping animals indoors.
“It’s more likely that a dog is going to be outside during those times of fireworks, and that’s why we really encourage people to have their pets indoors and not bring them out to parties and fireworks shows,” he said.
Casados says weighted blankets can soothe pets during New Year’s celebrations. And if a pet is lost, he advises checking the Humane Society’s website and online pet trackers.
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