Stress-free Holidays with Your Pets
Holidays can bring stress to all of us, and pets are no exceptions. When routines are disrupted and new activities occur, your pet may be the first to notice. Follow these tips to make the holidays and other events more relaxing for everyone, including your four-legged family members.
- Animals can become stressed with the hustle and bustle of holiday guests. Therefore, it’s best to keep your pets indoors and provide them with a safe, quiet, escape-proof room where they can get away from the energy and excitement. Remember to provide plenty of food and water, and let your pet catch up on some Z’s!
- Holiday guests don’t know your pets’ routines. If your guests smoke, make sure they are careful with their cigarettes. Also, let them know in advance whether they are allowed to give treats to your pets.
- As your holiday visitors come and go, there will be many escape opportunities for your pets. Make sure they are always wearing their current identification tags, consider having them microchipped (if they aren’t already), and keep watch of that door!
- Always keep your vet’s number handy, along with the number of animal poison control center, in case of an emergency.
Safe Ways To Celebrate
Make the holidays special for your pets, too! Provide your furry friends with some extra love and attention to let them know they aren’t forgotten during the busy holiday times.
- Take your dog for an extra walk – it’ll help both you and your pet relieve some of that holiday stress.
- Keep a supply of pet treats handy and reach for one before you’re tempted to toss your pet that little bite of “people” food you know they shouldn’t be having.
- Let your pet get into the gift-giving spirit by making a donation (i.e., food, toys, litter) to your local shelter in their name.
- Perhaps your dog would like a new bed or maybe a new scratching post for your cat. Birds also love mirrors and other fun items for their cage.
- Enjoy some extra snuggle time!
Whichever treat or activity you choose, you’ll be enhancing the bond between you and your pet – and they will love you for it!
For more information about pet holiday safety, please visit our website or contact our hospital at 619-422-6186 to set up an appointment to talk to our veterinarians.
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