The loud noises and bright flashes from fireworks during New Year’s celebrations are stressful for animals, especially those in shelters.
In Dallas, in the United States, a special event is being held to help shelter animals stay calm during the fireworks.
Dallas Animal Services is organizing its second Calming the Canines event on New Year’s Eve. The event invites volunteers from the community to visit the shelter and spend quiet time with the dogs and cats during one of the noisiest nights of the year.
Volunteers are encouraged to sit calmly with the animals, read to them, or simply keep them company. Staff say that this peaceful presence helps reduce the animals’ fear and anxiety caused by the fireworks.
Nashla Kalifa from Dallas Animal Services told CBS News that fireworks can be especially stressful for animals in shelters, where they are already under pressure.
She explained that even short moments of calm interaction can make a noticeable difference. The shelter is near several fireworks displays, making it hard to block out the noise. This quiet support from volunteers is valuable.
Last year, more than 200 people attended the event, with many staying from late at night until early morning.
The event also helps connect potential adopters with the animals. Staff say that New Year’s Day is often one of the busiest times of the year for shelters. Many animals run away in fear during the fireworks and are found and brought in the next day.
Dallas Animal Services also reminds pet owners to keep their animals safe during fireworks. They advise people to bring dogs inside, keep them in a quiet room, and make sure they have proper identification.
According to Kalifa, something as simple as staying calm and being present can make a big difference in animals’ lives during stressful moments like New Year’s Eve.
