Holiday Planning Tips for Pet Owners

The holiday season is upon us and as you gear up for the season, it’s important to keep your pet’s routines in mind. The festivities, change in routines and guests in the house can cause stress on your pet.

With that said, we have some tips to keep your pet happy this holiday season.

Find a Place for Your Pet (or a Sitter)

Suddenly, you’re expected to pack your bags and take a plane, train, or automobile to your relatives. While that might be simple enough for you, travel of any variety can be hard on your pet. You have a few options to choose from.

Take Them with You

Some of us have pets with separation anxiety and find that it’s easier for everyone if they tag along. If you choose to take your pet with you ensure they have a comfortable journey and, when you get there, have a place for them ready ahead of time! That means making sure your hotel, Airbnb, or relative’s house is pet-friendly so there are no surprises on arrival.

Find a Sitter

A pet sitter can be a great option if you have a cat. With dogs, it becomes a little trickier unless they agree to take your dogs on a daily walk to stretch their legs and can stop by a few times a day to take them out. However, many of us have pet sitters that’ll do just that; just make sure your pet is getting enough attention (and potty breaks) while you’re gone.

Board Your High-Energy Pet

Many dogs are simply too high-energy to be compatible with either travel or a pet sitter. If that’s the case, we suggest a pet hotel/pet boarding where they can frolic with other dogs and get plenty of playtime. Need a suggestion? Ask your vet; we know all of the best boarders in the area.

Ensure They Eat Right for the Holidays

The holidays are a time to eat, drink, and be merry. Unfortunately, the chaos of friends, family, and food can mean your sneaky pet might get into something he or she should not.

Food to Avoid

It goes without saying, but many human foods and animals do not mix. Keep your holiday plates and beverages far away from prying tongues. Turkey bones are especially a huge no-no. The bones are soft and can splinter.

Inedible Things Your Pet Might Find Tantalizing

Poinsettias are a common sight throughout the holiday season. However, the sap contained within their leaves can irritate the mouth and esophagus of your unwitting dog or cat.

While it might be a funny sight, your dog or cat should not chug that Christmas tree water! While the water itself is harmless enough, it more than likely is full of pine tree sap, whatever fertilizer was sprayed on the tree at the farm, and plenty of bacteria that has found a happy home in that stagnant water.

Additionally, tinsel can be incredibly dangerous to both dogs and cats who might find it appealing to play with. The shiny tinsel will likely catch their eye and if they end up eating it, it can cause them to choke or it can cause a blockage in the intestinal tract.

Keep Your Pet Merry this Season

Do you ever feel a little overwhelmed with a house full of people? Some of us do, some of us don’t. Pets tend to fall on the more “introverted” part of the social spectrum. With that said, allow them to join in on the activity but give them a space away from the fun if they need to get away from the noise for a bit.

If you follow these tips, we promise your pet will have a happy and merry holiday season!