Animal lovers say pets won’t enjoy the New Year’s Eve party

Fireworks and loud noises may cause them to panic

DUBAI // Parties, fireworks and loud noises go hand-in-hand with New Year’s Eve celebrations, and while many people look forward to the night, furry members of the household may not be so happy about it.

In consideration, animal welfare volunteers are urging pet owners to protect their animals from the stress of loud noises on the big night.

Kate Lindley, founder of Paw Pals Pets Nursery, said that many animals are scared by fireworks. “They’re an assault on the animal’s senses, which are more sensitive than ours,” she said. “To keep your pets safe and comfortable during fireworks, the best advice is to keep them indoors. Walk your dogs before dark, lock the cat flap and move rabbits and guinea pigs into garages or spare bathrooms.” Ms Lindley recommended that pet owners ensure all exits are secure and windows are closed and locked.

“You don’t want a scared animal running away, because they can easily injure themselves in the process,” she said.

“Make sure your cats and dogs have identification on them with your contact details and that their microchip number is registered with the municipality. This means that if they do run away, they are more easily reunited with you.”

Mahin Bahrami, of the Middle East Animal Foundation, said cat owners should put their pets in a quiet and dark room with their food and litter.

“Cats usually don’t like to be moved, but if there is a party in the house they should keep them in the most quiet part,” she said. “It’s OK if it’s by itself, they like quiet and dark places.” June Bowling, an American who lives in Downtown Dubai, said this year she would be boarding her two dogs for one night during New Year’s Eve.

“One of our dogs, an English bulldog, is extremely fearful,” she said. “This will be the third new year that I have had her, and the first two were terrible because I live close to Burj Khalifa.

“The noise is really loud, so it’s hard for her. I’m going to board them both because they’re so used to being together.” Ms Bowling said that the crowds that descend on downtown for the fireworks also scared her dog.

“Even taking her to the bathroom before the fireworks begin stresses her, so I decided this year it would be better to board her. I can relax and she can relax too,” she said.

Michael Singer, who also lives in Downtown Dubai, has three cats. He too was worried about the fireworks.

“I think the noise of all the people on the boulevard is more interesting to them,” he said.