Pet’s Nook by Indira Ceville-Borgella

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Pet’s Nook A Safe & Happy Holiday Season

By Indira Ceville-Borgella ’Tis the season of merriness and making memories! The season of family and friends, special gatherings celebrating life together with those you love. Let’s chat about some tips to make the holidays just as merry for our furry family. Tips to keep your dog safe and happy when people come home to visit

If you have a shy or a nervous dog, make sure to provide a safe space for your dog to go when they are uncomfortable. Make sure no guests or kids are following your dog into their “safe space”.

Ensure comfort and safety for everyone. Yes, it is your dog’s home and they have every right to be a part of social gatherings in your house. However, do respect boundaries of dog-fearing people and make sure that they are as comfortable around your dog as everyone else.

In a house full of people, you dog may easily sneak some holiday treats off the table. Supervise your dog and keep them away from human foods that may be toxic to them. Make sure you have some holiday treats prepared for your dog well in advance so they are not left out. Tips to remember when you leave your dog home alone to visit friends and family

If your dog is not used to staying alone at home, start training immediately. Start by leaving your dog home alone for a few minutes and train your way up.

Avoid giving your dog free range of the house during the Holiday season when they are home alone as they may very well find some human treats lying around the house that might be highly toxic or dangerous to them.

Leave them with some interactive puzzles and toys so that they can self-engage. However, avoid leaving edible chews and shred-worthy toys with them when they’re home alone. It puts them at the risk of choking and ingesting inedible toy-parts.

Invest in a good in-home security camera to keep an eye and maybe even talk to your dog when you’re away from them.

Make sure your dog is well exercised (physically and mentally) before leaving them alone for several hours as it will make it easier for them to settle down quickly.

Avoid leaving them alone during the New Years fireworks as they may already be in distress. Your absence will only make it worse.

If you are able to, consider a “doggy hotel” if you are unable to travel with your pet for extended time away. Be sure to book them well in advance. The holidays are busy times for them.

Above all, have a wonderful holiday season with all of your loved ones, furry and otherwise.

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