Pet Safety and Holiday Party Tips
The holidays can be stressful for humans and pets alike. The anxiety that arises with visitors coming and going, making and changing of plans, and end of the year bustling can be overwhelming. If you’re planning to have a party or gathering at your home, it’s important to consider your pets' safety. There’s a few things we can do to help them be extra comfortable and safe while entertaining guests or having family over for an extended stay.
Wear them out and get rid of that extra energy to help them relax more quickly. Arrange a puppy play date or walk around the block mid party.
Prepare a safe and quiet place for them to retreat and/or decompress. Give them plenty of toys to stay busy and happy. Play some relaxing spa music to help them wind-down and rest.
Place signs in plain sight so guests do not disturb their specified areas. This will remind guests of boundaries and keep them from bothering or letting them out of a safe area.
Inform your visitors that you have a pet. A quick message would help friends and family understand what’s expected. More importantly, anyone with allergies can plan accordingly.
Make introductions, allow guests to safely meet and greet as they arrive. Allow your pet to smell their hand, especially if they haven’t been around each other before. Treats are helpful in making sure everyone is greeted warmly. It’s important to pay attention in case your guests seem fearful and you can adjust appropriately.
Be their advocate. If they want to mingle and entertain guests too, it should be done safely. Let your guests know that giving table scraps or jumping up on people is not acceptable. Allow guests to give treats for good behavior.
Allow yourself plenty of time to check on and be with them. You’ll want to make sure they are not under distress. Consider setting an alarm to remind yourself every hour to give cuddles and bathroom breaks. Appoint a trusted family member to attend to your pet if you’re unavailable.
Trash cans are full and tempting around holiday time. When there’s a lot happening, the trash can supervision is compromised. Taking it outside more often to curb appeal is helpful. And if it does get ransacked, it would make for easier cleanup, we would hope.
Christmas trees and decorations alike, are magical and can be hazardous for pets. Perfectly strung lights and glittery ornaments should be watched carefully or be inaccessible to pets without supervision.
Talk to your veterinarian about their anxiety. Vets can help you determine if your pet would benefit from anti-anxiety medication
Give treats and positive reinforcement to reward those good behaviors or continue training. Relax, animals mirror our energy.
Invite your guests furry friends, the more the merrier. Although everyone might not get along, plan a meet and greet before the big day to make sure everyone is social. Then they can make their own memories!
As parties happen all year long, this list can be relevant for every season. We hope these few considerations can help you and your pets go with the flow and keep your holiday spirit alive and well!
