Heading into the holiday season, our thoughts are pulled into many directions. From our holiday menu to the guest list or even where to be and when. And just think, we know it’s the holidays and that our schedules are going to be different and quite possibly chaotic.
Now think about our pets. They are going to have no idea what is going on until it happens. I mean, you can try to explain it to them, but I have a feeling that conversation will go nowhere.
So how do we make the holiday season as normal and the least stressful as possible for our furry family members? There are several ways to help comfort our pets in order to reassure them that their world is not falling apart and, in all reality, might help us feel less stressed.
Keep the routine as normal as possible
Feeding times, walks, naps, and bedtime should all stay on the same schedule as much as possible. If this means you have to leave early or show up a little late, what better excuse than my dog needed me. Don’t forget when they start talking politics that the dog needs a walk.
Create a safe, relaxing space
When guests come over to our home, we need to remember it is our pet’s home, too, and that they might feel invaded or super excited to share their home with others. Be ready with a plan. Both these issues are over stimulating and should be addressed in order for your animal to be able to enjoy company as much as possible. Don’t hesitate to give your pet a break in a room of their own that is comfortable. Have a special treat or favorite toy waiting for them so that everyone can relax, knowing that there are going to be no bad choices made. Keeping the dog on a leash until they are comfortable is even an option.
Be aware of decoration overload
Our pets can stress about your holiday decorations. We move furniture and add smells from wherever the decorations come from. This can be a very big concern for some pets. Although they are beautiful and calming for us, the decorations might be a threat to our pets. Just new stull that our pets need to leave alone. A pet might need time to get used to the decor change of their domain, Take it slow, decorate in sections, or maybe spread out the amount of time you bring everything out, allowing them time to get used to everything bit by bit.
Table scraps are not necessary
Be educated on what table scraps are okay for our pets to have. Don’t hesitate to tell Uncle Bob that your animals are not allowed to have turkey skin or bones. Have a container of appropriate treats for guests to feel free to give the animals.
As a trainer, my first question for clients when they tell me their dog is acting differently is, “What has changed?”. The holiday season is a rollercoaster of change from smells, routines, and activities. None of us are perfect, so when your pet starts to act up just realize, they have no idea Santa is coming to town and just want their life back to normal. Give them grace and as much normalcy as possible.
These are just a few tips to get started thinking about how the holidays can affect our furry friends. I know the holidays can be busy and overwhelming but remember that your pet doesn’t understand and is waiting for you during this time of year just like the other 10 months out of the year, and we owe it to our best friends to make it the best holiday season for them also.
Happy Holidays! Stay safe, and as always, thank you all for your love and support,
Chastity Crowder, Fospice Mom, and Board President