As the end of one year draws near, and another begins, you may be thinking about how you can best celebrate another trip around the sun with your senior pet. In reality, your four-legged friend is likely content to snuggle up next to you as the ball drops, but you may be considering throwing a big celebration with your family and friends. If you plan on ringing in the New Year with a festive gathering, here are five tips to keep your senior pet happy, healthy, and safe as we welcome 2023.

#1: Don’t allow your senior pet to join in the champagne toasts

Although your senior pet is certainly old enough—especially in dog years—to drink alcohol, champagne and other alcoholic beverages should be off-limits. Alcohol is toxic for pets and can cause serious health issues, such as a drastic drop in blood sugar and liver failure. If drinks are spilled, clean them up immediately, before your pet has a chance to lap up the mess. 

#2: Ensure your senior pet’s ID tags are up-to-date

New Year’s Eve can be a dangerous time for a senior pet, who may get a hankering to wander outdoors, as your front door opens and closes to admit revelers. However, older pets often have diminished hearing and vision, and can easily become lost. Keep your pet safe by blocking access to the door, and walking them on a leash when outside. Should an unfortunate accident occur, update your pet’s collar ID tags and microchip registration, including your current phone number, to ensure you and your pet can be reunited. Also, check that their tag information is legible.

#3: Create a quiet spot for your senior pet to ride out the countdown

While some pets are party animals and enjoy being the center of attention, many senior pets prefer to relax away from the commotion of a large gathering. Create a quiet sanctuary for your pet that is off-limits to your guests, and stocked with all the necessities for a pet party of one. Line your senior pet’s orthopedic bed with a cozy fleece blanket, and give them their own party favor in the form of a long-lasting treat or food puzzle. If your pet is disturbed by loud noises or is anxious when left alone, consider installing a pheromone diffuser prior to New Year’s Eve for additional calming measures. 

#4: Keep your senior pet from ingesting party decorations

Confetti, balloons, ribbons, and sparkly garlands may liven up your New Year’s Eve bash, but they can pose serious health concerns to your senior pet. An inquisitive cat or dog may ingest these festive decorations, which can lead to gastrointestinal upset, or worse, an obstruction that requires surgical removal. Cats in particular are attracted to shiny strands, and can easily swallow a ribbon when playing with a deflated balloon. Hopefully, your senior pet is past puppy- and kitten-like antics and will refrain from chewing on unapproved items, but be safe by keeping decorations out of pets’ reach.

#5: Refrain from using noisemakers around your senior pet

Many pets are unsettled by loud noises, and although New Year’s Eve is typically not as noisy as the Fourth of July, cats and dogs can still be startled by unexpected sounds. If fireworks are common in your area, prepare your pet ahead of time by asking your family veterinarian about anti-anxiety medications. Skip celebrating with noise makers and party poppers, to keep your senior pet calm. If your four-legged friend is uncomfortable with loud noises, large gatherings, and changes in their daily routine, consider simply curling up on the couch and watching a movie marathon. Snuggle up and smooch your pooch as the ball drops, and enjoy ringing in the New Year with your favorite companion.