Given the pandemics of the past few years, statistics show dog ownership to be at an all-time high. In the UK alone, 20 million households will be celebrating the season with a canine friend in tow.
Whether you celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, or New Year’s Eve, added decorations, candles and the like can be hazardous for pets. Pet food subscription service Belle & Duke, asked the brand’s Natural Canine Behavioralist for some suggestions to keep our animals safe during this time.
Here’s the list:
1. Stress
Excessive excitement stresses dogs out. So you need to adjust your behavior accordingly. Create a private pace for them to retreat: a cozy area under a table or a covered crate near an open door. Playing soft calming music, a long-lasting chew like a pizzle stick can also help decrease anxiety.
2. Jumping on Guests
Dirty paws don’t go well with party attire. So before your critter jumps on granny to claw her tights, avoid all possible drama completely and put the pup in a back room for the duration of the festivities.
3. When the Postman Rings MORE than Twice
What with internet shopping, you may be expecting a multitude of deliveries. Again, a private space — back room — for your pet can be mapped out ahead of time so your dog is not waiting and barking at the door.
4. Pup Pissing on Tree
If you find Fido chewing on decorations or worse, urinating on the branches, it’s best to go back to basic training. Take your dog outside after the mishap and let him know to stay away. If the pup abides, give them a treat. An easier tact may be to keep the door closed, to prevent access to decorative spaces where such accidents may occur.
5. Presents
Store gifts in cupboards before unwrapping them with family and friends. Food should often be refrigerated and away from where the doggie can get to it. Gifts for pets who gnaw them open should be wrapped in plain brown paper as ink can be harmful.
6. Stealing Toys
Pups may not understand that your toddler’s toys are not meant to be shared with them. Nudge them away from the children’s play area with a reward treat.
7. Begging to be Fed
Never leave your plate unattended or your furry companions may think your leftovers are theirs for the taking. If your dogs jump up to the table, you can grab their paws for a moment of silence, then release them. Or ignore them completely, until they finally give up.
8. Crackers and Banging
The sound of crackers banging and rustling gift wrap may cause your dog to get uneasy. When the activities grow too noisy, many dogs will be more comfortable and happy in another room. Give them the means to quickly leave the space.
9. Special Holiday Meal for Prized Pup
Your dog’s hunger might grow with the smells of special celebratory foods cooking. So why not prepare them a special little plate of their own — either their dog food — or if safe to ingest, something from your table, to put aside in the dog’s special area.
10. Kids and Pups Intermingled
When food is involved, overexcited kids and dogs can be a disaster. Install a baby gate if necessary to give your kids and pets their private zones while maintaining a sense of inclusion. Teach your kids to be considerate and respect your dog’s space. It is best to eat all meals at the table to prevent sly robberies.
Source: The Scotsman
