The time around New Year's Eve and Independence Day, with all the noise and flash of fireworks, can be a terrifying time for pets. Pets often get lost because they are frightened.

The Hawaiian Humane Society has some tips to keep your pet safe and secure during the holiday season.

Make sure all your pets are wearing identification. ID tags will help them get returned to you if they become lost. Your vet can give your pet a microchip ID for permanent identification. It is also a good idea to have several photographs of each pet in the event they are lost.

Keep pets indoors in an area where they will feel protected. A quiet interior room is best. "Outside pets" should be brought into the garage or onto an enclosed lanai.

If possible, stay with your pets to comfort and reassure them, particularly if your animals are very excitable.

If you think your pets may need sedatives to keep them from getting overly frightened, call your veterinarian ahead of time. Do not give human tranquilizers to animals.

Lost Pets/Found Animals
Any lost pets can be taken to the Hawaiian Humane Society at 2700 Waialae Ave. in Moiliili.

If you find a lost animal, call the Humane Society at 946-2187, ext. 285, or bring the animal to the shelter which is open 24 hours to receive lost animals and for emergency rescues, including New Year’s Day.

If you lose your pet, come to the shelter during visiting hours to look for them and report them lost. Bring a photo of your pet with you. Visiting hours are noon to 8 p.m. weekdays, and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekends. The shelter will be closed on New Year’s Day for visiting.