Holiday Stress and Your Pet
We love the sights and smells of the holidays! A friendly dog loves the hustle and bustle; new people, new things, and, best of all good food stream into the house.
For all he knows, the show is being put on for his benefit.
It's like a never-ending car ride. But remember there are a few unusual circumstances that our pets have to deal with:
A constant stream of company
bad eating habits
less exercise
foreign objects
more scolding
boarding
So what can you do to ease the burden? Three words: routine, routine, routine. Keeping as close as you can to your pet's normal schedule is the best antidote to holiday stress. Stay consistent with feeding times and amounts, and be on guard against illegal snacks.
Maintain his exercise, walking schedule and playtime. A tired pet is a happy pet. This advice, by the way, goes for people too. Exercise is a great stress reliever. If time is precious, combine your exercise with your pet's by setting aside a specific amount of time each day – 20 minutes for instance – for you both to play and work up a little healthy sweat. Staying in shape improves attitude and behavior in pets and people.
Getting your pet used to crowds in the home also helps. Bring your friends or family over to get your pet used to it, and reward him if he behaves correctly. Learn more points of etiquette and safety by seeing the story on guests and pets.
It is important to reserve a room for your pet to retreat to, equipped with his favorite toys, a bowl full of fresh water, some food perhaps, and clothing or blankets with your scent on it. This gives your pet a safe comfortable place to which he can retreat from the madness.
As for Christmas trees and holiday decorations, there are a lot of hazards your pet faces – it's important to know what to look for and how to secure your home.
Traveling during the holidays is stressful whether you bring a pet or not. Dogs usually travel better because they are by nature in love with car rides. Cats normally despise it, and who can blame them? Pre-planning is an absolute must, whether by car or by airline.