The holiday season can be an exciting yet stressful time for pets. With visitors coming and going, changes in routine, new sights and sounds, and tempting holiday foods, it’s important to take steps to reduce pet anxiety and keep them comfortable. Here are some tips to help ease your pet’s mind this holiday season:
1. Gradually introduce holiday decorations and events. Don’t overwhelm your pet by decorating the entire house or hosting a big gathering all at once. Introduce these holiday changes slowly so they can get used to new sights and sounds.
2. Create a safe space for your pet. Set up a quiet, comfortable area with familiar bedding, toys and treats where your pet can retreat when they need a break from the commotion. Close the door to this space when guests are over.
3. Properly introduce guests. Make sure visitors arrive calmly and do not immediately approach or crowd around your pet. Allow your pet to sniff the new person’s hand before petting begins. If your pet seems overwhelmed, have them return to their safe space.
4. Exercise before gatherings. Make sure your pet gets proper exercise to burn off energy beforehand. A walk or play session will help them feel more relaxed when company arrives.
5. Occupy them with toys and treats. Provide puzzle toys, chews, lick mats and other engaging activities to keep your pet distracted and comforted. Use special high-value treats as positive reinforcement for calm behavior.
6. Maintain routines. Keep your pet’s mealtimes, walks, play sessions and bedtimes as close to their normal schedule as possible. Consistency is key for reducing stress.
7. The emergency vet is full during the holidays with pets that have eaten something they shouldn’t have. Avoid giving your pet holiday foods and having toxic plants in the home. Human holiday foods and festive plants like poinsettias can be dangerous for pets if ingested. Keep holiday plants out of reach and avoid leaving food unattended. Instead buy them their own special pet safe treats.
Following these tips will help prevent anxiety and keep your pet happy, healthy and at ease this holiday season. Let me know if you need any other pet care advice for reducing holiday stress!
Morag is the owner and founder of York Regions most trusted premier in-home pet care and dog walking companies. In 2000 she saw a need for an alternative to kennels, catteries for family pets in the area and has always believed that pets are much happier and less stressed staying in their own familiar environment. Morag and her team are all certified in Pet 1st Aid and CPR, she also offers continuous training to her team members through online and hands on pet care and pet behaviour and care courses. Morag has earned her certificate in Professional Pet Sitting, Professional Dog Walking and Canine Attendant training. She has lived in the Newmarket/Aurora area since 1991 is a wife, a mother of 2 adult children and a grandmother of 2 delightful little balls of energy. She has also been owned by fish, birds, mice, rats, cats, dogs, gerbils and guinea pigs and is an advocate for all living creatures. In her spare time she likes to be involved in her community and events travelling, reading and cooking.
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