Happy Pets Happy Holidays!
Happy Pets Happy Holidays! A Guide to Fear Free Holiday Wellness
The holiday season is a joyous time for families, but all the excitement—extra guests, loud noises, and changes in routine—can be stressful or even hazardous for our beloved pets. Implementing Fear Free practices can help minimize this stress and ensure your furry friends have a happy and healthy holiday season.
Create Calm & Comfortable Spaces
Designating quiet retreats for pets is crucial for reducing fear, anxiety, and stress associated with increased visitors or loud events.
Designate a safe haven: Set up a cozy, quiet room away from the main hustle and bustle where your pet can retreat when they feel overwhelmed.
Maintain routine: Stick to their regular feeding and exercise schedules as much as possible to provide a sense of normalcy and stability.
Use calming aids: Consider using pet-specific pheromone diffusers or calming music to help soothe stressed pets.
Keep Pets Safe from Holiday Hazards
The holidays are filled with potential dangers, from toxic foods to hazardous decorations.
Watch the food menu: Avoid giving pets common holiday foods such as chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, and fatty meat scraps, as these can be toxic or cause severe health issues. Keep all human food out of reach and remind guests not to share table scraps.
Secure decorations: Tinsel, ribbons, and small or breakable ornaments can cause intestinal blockages if ingested. Secure your Christmas tree to prevent tipping and keep all electrical cords hidden or secured.
Avoid toxic plants: Common holiday plants like mistletoe, holly, and poinsettias are toxic if chewed or eaten. Opt for artificial versions or keep them well out of reach.
Holiday Fun & Positive Experiences
Focus on incorporating pets into the festivities in positive ways to ensure enjoyable and enriching experiences.
Positive interactions: Monitor interactions with guests, especially children, to ensure they are gentle and positive.
Provide enrichment: Use interactive toys, puzzle feeders, or sniffing games (like a "scavenger hunt" for treats) to keep their minds engaged and help burn off energy.
One-on-one time: Despite the hustle, ensure you schedule individual attention and quiet time with your pet, which reassures them and strengthens your bond.
By planning ahead and being mindful of these tips, you can help your pets feel safe, secure, and part of the holiday fun.