Planning For Pets At The Holidays

November 23, 2008 - There is no denying it!  The holiday season is upon us. Even the most committed scrooges among us will not be able to escape the festivities, food, and hustle and bustle of the season. While you are working on keeping your holidays joyful, your friends at the Spartanburg Humane Society wanted to offer a few ideas that will help reduce pet related stress for the dogs and cats in your life and for you!

Remember the Routine

With all the activity of the holiday season, our pets often find themselves facing long family absences and strange new events occurring in their households. To offset these big changes and reduce their stress levels, dogs and cats alike benefit from a predictable schedule, including proper exercise, play, regular feeding times, and clear rules.

Consider introducing your dog to any schedule changes, like later feedings or earlier walks, before the holiday rush truly starts. You may also want to make an early New Year's resolution to walk your dog regularly during the holidays and beyond. Your dog will get much needed exercise and you'll stay slim and trim in spite of all those extra holiday goodies.

Even though a cat may not bug you for attention like a dog can, they still need quality human contact on a daily basis. Make sure that your feline friend still gets one-on-one time with you, no matter how busy things may seem.

Aunt Stranger and Uncle Who???

While we may look forward to seeing distant family and friends, our pets may not be as excited. On the other hand, our pets may love EVERYONE. To help all the special members of your circle get along, think about how your pets and visitors will react to each other in advance of gatherings, and prepare for all scenarios.

A great option for very fearful, excitable, or aggressive animals is to confine them to a crate or another room for the duration of the visit. Make the hideaway appealing for your pet, with comfortable bedding and favorite toys to keep them happily occupied while they are on their own. Consider leaving a TV or radio on to keep them company. Fresh water and, in the case of cats, a litter box, are also essential!  For this plan to work, it is important to make sure that everyone knows the rules. Put a sign on the door to let your guests know that your pet is inside and should not be disturbed.

Another option for pets who enjoy people but need a bit of reassurance or guidance is to introduce them after most or all of your guests have arrived and settled in. Dogs can be kept on lead with a responsible family member to mediate interactions and to prevent problems like jumping up, stealing things from counters, or chewing on inappropriate items. Be sure to reward appropriate behavior with praise and affection; treats may also be helpful.

For well trained animals and guests who enjoy their presence, you may need to focus on the human element. Doting friends and family should be clear on house rules related to your cat or dog (i.e. no jumping up on people, no table scraps, no unsupervised visits outside, etc.). If they cannot follow the guidelines, they may need to be denied access to your pet until they can learn to behave!

Deck the Halls

When decorating for the season, it is important to consider your pet's perspective. Does it look or smell like a toy? Is it within reach (keeping in mind that cats are naturally gifted climbers)? What will happen if it is eaten, chased, or swatted with a tail or paw?

Avoid using tinsel or other string-like decorations in locations your cat can reach, hang fragile ornaments at the top of your tree, and consider tying your tree to a sturdy object or wall for extra security. Only burn candles when you are home and remember to keep them out of the reach of pets. Trees and large decorations can be effectively protected from many dogs with baby gates or pet gates (also called exercise pens), while doors may be required for cats.

Holly leaves and berries, mistletoe, hibiscus, and poinsettias, are popular holiday decorations that can be dangerous if ingested by pets. Consider imitation plants, they can be just as attractive and they are long lasting.

Treat Your Pet to a Healthy Holiday Diet

For many of us, holidays are synonymous with food – and lots of it. Turkey (or Tofurky) and fixins, candy, cookies, eggnog, the tantalizing smells go on and on. You can't blame your pets for trying to share the bounty, but it's just not good for them. While some ingredients can cause mild stomach upset, others can be lethal. It's best for everyone if pets stick to their regular diet. This rule needs to be widely enforced, so well-meaning visitors don't give in to those sad eyes or persistent meows. Clearing off counters and securing garbage cans will set everyone up for success.

With a little extra caution and preparation, you and your pets can have a more relaxing and enjoyable holiday season.