Pet Behavior Problems and the Holidays
Pet Safety and Entertaining at Home
During the holidays it is more likely you will be having people visit your home. As much fun as this is for you, it can be upsetting for your pet. Dogs and cats are creatures of routines (as are some of us humans) and when your home gets topsy turvy, they tend to get stressed out. Here are few suggestions from experts on how to prepare your pet for the holidays:
Prepare your guests - Before you have guests in your home, tell them you have a pet. Ask them if they have any issues with your pet. Some people have allergies and some people are afraid of animals. For example, my daughter used to be terrified of large dogs.
Have an obedience review – Making sure your pet responds to commands such as “stay”, “down” and “drop it” will prevent your dog from rushing at visitors, jumping on guests and eating harmful foods.
Clean for allergies - Clean and vacuum your entire home. If you have a guest with allergies make sure their room is aired out and don’t let your pet in that room after you clean it.
Rearrange furniture a few days before event - If you are going to move the furniture around do it a few days early so your pet can get used to it. Pets do not like changes and yours will need some time to get acclimated to the new setting.
Maintain normal walking and feeding schedules – Take your dog for a walk before guests arrive. Try to keep the regular routine of exercise and eating as normal as possible.
Tell small children how to treat your pet - Children who have no pets at home need to be shown how your dog or cat likes to be petted and what is good behavior around pets. Make an adult is always with a child when he or she is interacting with your pet.
Have a safe retreat for your pet – Pets may need to chill out in a quiet place. Have one available for your pet.
Monitor treats – Don’t let your guests give your pets any food other than dog treats. Many people do not understand that many everyday foods are toxic to dogs and cats so just give them some dog or cat treats to feed your pet.
Door policy – Tell guests how to keep your pet from making a break for it when the door opens. It may be helpful to make a sign saying “Keep dog/cat inside” and post it on the door. Also, make sure your pet is wearing a collar.
Stay relaxed - Good advice at all times but during the holidays you may tend to be more tense. Your pet picks up on your emotions so you need to stay calm.
Want to know more about Pet Safety for the Holidays read our post on Top Holiday Dangers for Pets
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