How to protect your pets during New Year’s celebration

With 2019 around the corner, the holidays can be a dangerous time for animals. That is why the Humane Society of Yuma is encouraging the community to take precautions to ensure the safety of your pets at home.

The shelter holds approximately 300 pets but during the New Year’s celebrations, they see an increase of animals at the shelter.

“Animals get scared by loud noises so the fireworks and gunshots will only spook them and could trigger them to run away from home,” said Lana Shapiro, Director of Development with Humane Society of Yuma.

Shapiro said that it’s important to make sure that pets have a secure spot during the fireworks display.

“If your pet gets anxiety over loud noises, we strongly encourage the owners talking to a veterinarian about any medications that are available to help cope with the anxiety of pets,” said Shapiro.

With Humane Society of Yuma being the only pet shelter in Yuma, Shapiro said that residents should bring any pets that are not yours to the shelter before they run into any other risks.

“Space here at the shelter is very valuable and it can mean life or death for some of these animals. Once they’re loose out in the community, they’re at risk getting hit by a car or not finding the right home,” said Shapiro.

If you lose a pet during the holidays, you can call the shelter at (928) 782-1621. They will wave any fees to reunite you with your pet from December 30 until January 2.