With New Year’s Eve festivities bound to present some unusual situations for the many pets of Santa Clarita, here are a few tips on how to keep pets safe.

Whether it’s fireworks, cold weather or lots of party guests, New Year’s Eve presents a number of unfamiliar and potentially dangerous situations for the pets of Santa Clarita.

“I feel New Years is very similar to the Fourth of July; there are loud noises, fireworks and parties,” said Dr. Jaimie Ronchetto, owner of Cinema Veterinary Centre in Valencia. “The main thing is to make sure your pets are secure and can’t get out of your home.”

Ronchetto added that in cases where pets are particularly affected by loud noises, to consider crating them and playing soothing music to drown out the noises, and to consider sedation in extreme cases.

Although Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff’s Station officials have reminded residents that fireworks are illegal in Santa Clarita, pet owners should still be prepared for the possibility that their neighbors do not follow this law, according to officials.

Los Angeles County Animal Care & Control officials agreed with Ronchetto that the No. 1 thing pet owners can do to ensure pet safety is to ensure they are secure and unable to escape.

“Make sure your pets are secure and have an ID or collar on,” said Allison Cardona, deputy director for the Los Angeles County Department of Animal Care and Control. “And please, if your pet gets out, go to your shelter, put up posters and visit the Animal Care and Control website to see if they have been found.”

Both officials also warned owners to be aware of any food that can be toxic to dogs, such as chocolate, alcohol, onions and avocado.

“Certainly if you’re having a party, make sure they aren’t getting extra treats or food items, and make sure guests know not to feed them,” said Ronchetto.

Los Angeles County Office of Public Health officials recommends pets be brought inside overnight, as cold weather is expected throughout the night.

“Maybe take some time to consider making some resolutions for your pet too,” Ronchetto said. “Maybe this is the year Sparky drops a few pounds.”

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