There’s so much to love about the holidays—including all the activities. With all of our commitments and distractions, our pets can swing between mildly perturbed to downright unhinged. It’s not their fault that their daily routine flies out the window this time of year, or that their typically calm home is inundated with a constantly ringing doorbell, tempting decorations, and guests. With a little bit of effort, you can keep your pets safe during festivities.
The Comfort of Routine
If possible, keep your pet’s meal times, bathroom breaks, and exercise/enrichment opportunities at the same times every day. Hire a pet sitter or dog walker on days that require longer absences from home. An active dog may benefit from a couple days a week at a doggie daycare to keep any unwanted or anxious behavior at bay.
Identification Matters
Because pets struggle with disruption in many unpredictable ways that cause fearful reactions, we recommend a thorough assessment of your pet’s collar, ID tags, and microchip. Make any changes or adjustments as necessary.
Take a walk around your property to check on any gaps beneath fences or spaces between gates. Look at window screens for any rips or tears, and install safety gates if your pet exhibits any signs of fleeing through the front door.
A Place of Quiet
Crate training is really useful throughout the year, but can be indispensable during the holidays. If you ever worry about your pet’s safety, or that of your guests, the crate is critical to maintaining a peaceful family gathering.
When you gather for a meal or gift exchange, if your pet shows signs of stress, confusion, or anxiety, invite them to take a short break in their crate. Alternatively, set up a back room with cozy bedding, fresh water, snacks, and toys to help them get through any party with confidence.
Holiday Pet Safety
A major component to keeping your pet’s safe during the holidays has to do with holiday food. Be sure your pet is never offered, or has unsupervised access to, any of these dangerous foods:
- Chocolate
- Alcohol
- Caffeine
- Buttery, rich foods
- Fatty foods
- Poultry bones and skin
- Macadamia nuts
- Grapes/raisins/currants
- Onions
- Garlic
- Leeks
- Chives
Additionally, certain holiday plants, such as poinsettias, mistletoe, and holly can cause a range of symptoms in pets. Please call us at (530) 533‑7513 if you see any of the following symptoms of a pet poisoning:
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Seizures of tremors
- Loss of appetite
- Any changes to behavior, including hiding, lethargy, or unsteady gait
Making Memories
While there’s a lot to be concerned about during the holidays, there are opportunities to make wonderful memories with your pet. Try to provide them with extra play times or workouts, make some tasty holiday-flavored pet treats together, and take their cues to make changes to their environment or stimuli.
From all of us at Oroville Animal Health Center, have a safe and happy holiday!