The holidays are stressful! Every year the planning, the cooking, the present buying, all in addition to everyday life. Don’t get me wrong, I LOVE the holidays. There is something about all that crazy, and the holiday music, that gives me the warm fuzzies inside.
I’m not sure my sweet pup, Tucker, agrees. People in general stress this baby out. (Though he is learning to like them more) Lots of activity stresses him out. In fact, anything outside of his daily norm of being with us can stress him out. So, every year I do my best to find ways to make the holidays a bit easier for him. Over the years, some things have worked, and others have been a fail. Here are some tips that I have settled on that make Tucker more at ease when we get to the holiday season.
Maintain Routine:
- Stick to Schedule: Your pet doesn’t fully understand that life is busier for you this time of year. As much as possible, try to keep your pet’s daily routine. Regular meal times, walks, and playtime can provide a sense of normalcy.
- Quiet Space: During any holiday, we had a special space set up for Tucker so he could be away from the crazy and relax. (It happened to be my closet…lol) Designate a quiet, safe space where your pet can retreat from the hustle and bustle.
Manage Stressors:
- Noise and Crowds: Tucker has learned to like people, but too many people can still stress him out. If your pet seems anxious around loud noises or crowds, consider consulting your vet for calming aids or anxiety medication.
- New Visitors: A room full of people is not my babies ideal scenario for meeting new people. He needs time and a calmer environment to decide if he likes you. Introduce guests to your pet gradually and in a calm environment. Avoid overwhelming them with too much attention.
Holiday Hazards:
- Food: Dogs have sensitive systems, and cannot tolerate many of the same foods as us. In fact, many human foods can be pretty harmful to our pets. Keep holiday treats and rich foods out of reach. Check out our post on what human foods dogs can have and what to avoid.
- Decorations: Every year I see funny stories about cats knocking over trees, and dogs eating decorations. Make sure to secure holiday decorations to prevent accidents. Be cautious of tinsel and ornaments that could be ingested.
- Plants: They always look pretty, but some plants are toxic to our pets. Research the safety of holiday plants like poinsettias and mistletoe.
Festive Fun:
- Involve Your Pet: As we are being cautious with our pets, we don’t want to completely exclude them during the holidays either. Include your pet in holiday activities, like a gentle walk or a game of fetch.
- Holiday Treats (Moderation): I think Tucker would give up anything for treats. If I allowed it, he would live on them. Give your pet special treats, but in moderation. Consult your vet for appropriate treats and portion sizes.
So, love on your sweet pet this season. By following these tips, you can help ensure that your pet has a safe, stress-free and enjoyable holiday season. If you have any concerns about your pet’s behavior or health during the holidays, be sure to consult your veterinarian.
Happy Holidays to you and your furry friend!
