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Set realistic expectations and make plans ahead of time for pets during the holidays. Images courtesy of Laura Ansel, DVM

As the end of the year approaches, many people begin preparing for holiday celebrations with family and friends. The season often brings busy schedules, parties, and plenty of planning. When making holiday plans, do not forget about your pets. Hectic schedules can make it harder to give them the exercise and play they are used to. Parties can be stressful for pets with new visitors, loud noises, and increased activity. Changes in routine, such as kids being home from school or evening holiday gatherings, can also be confusing and overwhelming.

How to Plan Ahead for Pets During the Holidays

• Set up a quiet space where your pet can escape parties, visitors, and loud noises like fireworks. Provide enrichment such as chew toys, food puzzles, calming music, or white noise to help them relax. 
• Ensure your pet has proper identification, such as a collar with tags or a microchip. Many pets get lost during holiday travel or when visitors come and go.
• If you are traveling and your pet is not joining you, reserve a boarding space or book a pet sitter well in advance. Visit the facility or introduce the sitter to your pets before your trip.
• If your pet is traveling with you, book pet-friendly accommodations. Bring familiar items to help your pet feel comfortable.
• When traveling, pack enough food and medications for your pet. If you are worried about how travel or holiday stress will affect your pet, talk to your veterinarian about possible medications or supplements. 

Holiday Decorations and Pet Safety

Many homes are extravagantly decorated during the holidays. These seasonal additions may pose some risks for pets.

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Dogs can find holiday decorations frightening at first but can overcome that fear with the right approach.

• Yard decorations can be scary for pets, especially if they make noise or move. Avoid yard decorations, light displays, and crowded places if your pet seems stressed.
• Cover wires that your pet can reach. Pets could get tangled in them or electrocuted if they chew on them.
• Place toxic holiday plants, like holly, mistletoe, and poinsettias, out of reach.  
• Keep holiday treats away from pets.  Foods like chocolate and macadamia nuts are toxic to pets, and many sweets contain xylitol, which is also toxic. Candy wrappers may cause harm if ingested.
• Glass ornaments can be easily knocked over by pets, causing injury. Snow globe liquid may contain ethylene glycol, which is sweet-tasting but deadly to pets.
• Cats love to play with shiny things like tinsel and ribbon. These can cause serious gastrointestinal issues if eaten.  

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Food toys and puzzles can provide enrichment in your pet’s safe space. Images courtesy of Laura Ansel, DVM

Parties, Visitors, and Your Pets

Many pets feel nervous around strangers, so holiday gatherings can add stress. Even social pets can get overwhelmed with all the noise, people, and changes to their routine.

• Make sure your pet has access to its safe space every day, not just when visitors arrive. This will help your pet get used to it and feel comfortable.
• Discuss medications or supplements with your veterinarian to help your pet feel less stressed.
• Have food puzzles or toys ready ahead of time so they are easy to give when your pet needs a distraction.  
• Take care of your pet’s basic needs, like a bathroom break and feeding, before visitors arrive.
• Confining near visitors may intensify your pet’s fear because they cannot move away. If your dog has not been conditioned to a crate, prepare a quiet room away from company.
• If your pet is with you during the festivities, make sure they have the option to leave if they become overwhelmed.
• Keep your pet away from food tables, trash cans, and alcohol. Fatty foods, chocolate, grapes or raisins, and animal bones can be harmful to them.
• Do not bring your pet to fireworks displays. Even if your dog is not afraid of the noise, large crowds and smells can be overwhelming. Keep them in their safe haven with white noise and follow your veterinarian’s advice if they are on medications.   

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If costumes frighten your pet, bandanas may be a festive alternative. Images courtesy of Laura Ansel, DVM

Safe Ways to Include Pets in the Holidays

Pets are part of the family, so it is great to include them in holiday fun. Monitor their body language so they stay comfortable.

• If you take holiday photos with your pets, do not force costumes on them.  
• Take your dog for a walk with your guests instead of staying inside. Open spaces can help your dog feel more comfortable around people.
• Making or buying holiday pet treats can become a fun tradition.
• Treat your pet to a new bed, collar, or toy.
• Hiding new items around the home for pets to find can be fun and rewarding.
• Spend a cozy night watching holiday movies with your pet. Enjoy the snuggling and downtime.

Plan ahead and consider your pet’s needs to help make the holiday season safe and enjoyable for everyone.