With the holiday season upon us, it is time to think about parties, get-togethers, and decorations. However, for dog lovers there is an extra element to all the planning and preparation – keeping your precious pooch safe from all the hidden dangers of the season.
Before hanging the lights and mixing the eggnog, check out this list of ways to help your dog survive the holiday season safely and without undue stress.
Dog Lovers Holiday Survival Guide
Brush up on obedience: If your dog has not mastered the basic commands, such as “sit”, “stay” or “leave it”, now is the time to retrain them and get them familiar with the behaviors. Before the guests start arriving and things get chaotic, you also want to make sure that your dogs are properly socialized and won’t get agitated, stressed or aggressive with strangers in close proximity.
Prepare a safe haven: No matter how prepared you may think your dog is for all the music and merriment, you may want to create a safe haven where they can escape if they are overwhelmed. A kennel or crate in a quiet room (or outside, as long as it isn’t one of our colder evenings) will make them feel safe – be sure to include a favorite blanket or toy.
Keep food out of reach: During the holidays, we often have candy, cookies and plates of food lying around in places that they are not normally. Be sure to keep all of these things out of reach of your dog, as many foods (especially chocolate) can be exceptionally dangerous for canines. Dog lovers should brush up on those foods which are most toxic to their pets, and be careful to keep the animals safe. If you are having a large party and you know food will be plentiful, and left on end tables and coffee tables – you may want to secure the dog for the duration of the party. If you want your dog to have free run of the place, give them a Kong toy filled with their favorite treat in order to keep them interested in their own safe food.
If you must feed them: Many people want to include their animals in the festivities. Research the “people food” that is safe for dogs and let your guests know which are appropriate. You may even want to have a small “doggy table” with the foods they are allowed. If you are feeling especially merry, bake some doggy Christmas goodies for a special treat.
Watch for alcohol consumption: Alcoholic drinks look inviting to your pooch, but can make them very sick. Ask your guests for assistance in keeping both food and drink out of their reach.
Be mindful of holiday decorations: The tree, the lights, the ribbons on presents – these traditional holiday decorations are glittery, shiny, and often irresistible to curious pets. Keep a close eye on your dog as you decorate and for a few days after the décor is installed, to make sure that they are not trying to pull it down or apart. Make sure nothing too small is accessible so that they do not choke. Cover electrical wiring if your dog is prone to chewing on anything new.
The holidays are a joyous time, but can be stressful for your pet. Sarasota and Bradenton dog lovers trust Gulf Coast K9 Dog Training for obedience classes and all their dog training needs – whatever the season!
