The holidays can be a stressful time. All the hustle and bustle, guests at the house, new faces, every surface cluttered with gifts and yummy smelling holiday baked goods—it can be a lot. And imagine all of those things from your dog’s perspective, who doesn’t even understand what’s going on.
This time of year can bring with it new smells, new people, and potentially terrifying and stressful situations for your dog. Your dog could hurt themselves, eat something they’re not supposed to, or experience fear in relation to the holiday guests. Here’s how to keep Fido in mind while you’re celebrating Christmas and New Years.
Decide How Much Company Your Dog Can Handle
Some dogs do alright with two or three people in their house at a time, but can be easily overwhelmed with five or more friends and family members you’re planning for your holiday party. If you know your dog isn’t too fond of loud crowds, consider giving him or her a comfortable place away from your main area when you’re hosting guests.
Keep in mind that any dog that shows aggression with new people should always be put away when you have guests present. Dogs who have phobias of noise or are shy should also be given some space. Too many people may unduly stress senior dogs.
Make Sure Your Dog is Properly Trained
If you have the foresight to think ahead, you can train your dog with holiday guests in mind. Make sure your dog knows how to sit and stay and can obey on command. Give your dog his own “space” and frequently teach him to stay in this area, whether it’s a crate, a mat, or a bed.
If your dog enjoys being petted by you and other people and can be relied on to obey reasonably, they’ll be a great addition to your holiday party. If you aren’t sure, though, there’s no reason to risk your dog’s stress and your guest’s discomfort.
Get Your Dog Some Exercise
During the holidays, we’re all a little more distracted than usual, and that might mean your pup doesn’t get out for her usual walk or run. Don’t neglect your dog’s physical exercise during the holidays, though. A long walk or run could be exactly the stress relief your dog needs to be able to handle your next round of entertaining. It’ll be good for you in all the hubbub, too.
Natural Alternatives
Our veterinarian and staff are well trained in making your pet's experience at our clinic or hospital as fear free as possible. You might consider the techniques and products we use to help calm a pet's nerves. You can pick up a pheromone diffuser to place in your home to help Fido's anxiety. We also offer Pet Acoustic Cubes that play music that has proven to be calming to pets. They can be placed anywhere in your home (or car).
Traditional Medications
We understand that some pets are just naturally anxious and need anti-anxiety medications for rare stressful events, (thunderstorms, fireworks, crowds of people, and yes, visiting the vet). Feel free to talk to any one of your veterinarians about helping your pet's anxiety with a prescription medication. They'll know if a prescription is the right solution for your pet.
The holidays is a wonderful time to enjoy your dog’s presence along with friends and family. Just make sure you’re keeping his or her needs in mind. Contact us if you have any questions about our natural remedies to help ease your dog's stress.
