For many families, it can be easy to overlook the needs of our pets once the chaos of planning and parties arrives, so we hope you find our tips helpful for staying safe throughout the season. Pet owners can maintain a sense of calm around the home by staying on schedule for feeding times, sleep, exercise and play. Pets can also sense when we are anxious so keeping to their regular routine is key to giving them the reassurance they seek during any new, unfamiliar activity. Whether you’re entertaining at home or traveling for the holidays, you’ll want to avoid some of the dangers that may have you “paws” for alarm instead of enjoying time together as a family.
Beware of the Dangers to Pets During the Holidays
It is the most wonderful time of the year … or is it? While the holidays are a great time to get together with family and friends, the season is also a time of stressful hustle and bustle. From decorations and parties to holiday travel, November through New Year’s can be a time of big change that tend to turn our pet’s world upside down. For four-legged friends that aren’t used to visitors, holiday gatherings can cause them to become over excited and before you know it your mild mannered pet can turn into a jumping, barking, food grabbing dog. Try introducing your pet to the idea of entertaining by hosting small get-togethers to work on his party manners before the big holiday bash. If your pet still isn’t Mr. Petiquette by party day be sure to set up a safe and peaceful space for him away from the noise and commotion of the holiday gathering complete with water, toys, treats and a bed.
During the holidays, homes also fill with the enticing aromas that come from baking cookies and pies to roasting turkeys. These temptations are hard to resist for anyone, man or pup. While for us the biggest problem might be buttoning our pants after feasting, the repercussions are far more dangerous for our four-legged friends. Veterinarians report higher cases of toxicity during the winter, the result of getting into dangers like baker’s chocolate, artificial sweeteners , table scraps and bones. Keep these dangerous ingredients far from sight and smell and make sure that your guests especially children know not to slip your dog tasty morsels under the holiday table.
For many the holidays aren’t complete until all of the trimmings are displayed around the house. Much of your pretty, shiny decor however attracts cats and dogs and they can suffer injuries such as cuts in their mouths to intestinal blockages from swallowing decorations. Candles and twinkling holiday lights can also cause cause serious dangers. For pets that like to chew, electrical shock can result from gnawing on light wires that run along the floor, tree and windows. Candles should be placed in hard to reach areas as well so that curious pets cannot reach them causing burns or a fire. There are also many toxic holiday plants, which can lead to diarrhea, vomiting, oral irritations, and even death. The most common plants to avoid are holly, mistletoe, poinsettias, and pine needles. Even the single leaf from a lily plant can be lethal to cats.
Holiday Travel Safety for Pets
Many people will take to the highways during the holidays traveling to visit family and friends and often with their pets, which can bring about a whole new set of dangers to consider. Preparation is key to keeping your pet safe and enjoying the open road. Make sure he travels in the car in a crate, microchipped and wearing i.d. tags so that he is protected and found in case of an accident or unexpected car door opening. Don’t forget to pack your pet’s favorite toys, blanket and his regular food. If your pet does not travel well, it’s best to have him stay at a boarding facility that you trust to supervise him 24-hours a day with plenty of exercise and TLC. You’ll rest better knowing he is safe and secure while you travel. If you’re considering a stay at Purr’n Pooch Pet Resorts, reserve your pet’s visit now as our cattery and dog suites book quickly. Our grooming and spa appointments also need reservations.
Once all of the hustle and bustle has calmed down you and your pet can get back to life as normal. Keep in mind that the holidays may be stressful, but they also offer rare opportunities to spend time quality time with your pets. So enjoy those longer walks and extra cuddle time on the couch.
From all of us at Purr’n Pooch Pet Resorts, enjoy a safe and jolly time together.