Involve four-legged friends in festivities

written by JENNIFER DOLAN

DOCTOR OF VETERINARY MEDICINE CUMBERLAND VALLEY VETERINARY CLINIC

The holidays are quickly approaching, so it’s a busy time of year. Amid all the hustle and bustle, don’t forget to include your furry family members in holiday activities. Here are some ideas to keep your pets involved in the festivities: • Include pets in any outdoor activity you have planned, such as walks to admire neighborhood decorations and lights; hikes in the snow; attending parades; caroling; or going to pick out a live tree. Make sure your pet is appropriately dressed – a sweater or coat, if needed, and booties, if appropriate, to protect from ice or salt. There are small animal carriers that also act as backpacks so cats or small dogs can accompany their owners on holiday outings. • Making gourmet treats and hosting a Christmas pet party are wonderful ways to get friends and their pets together. Create handmade holiday-themed dog or cat treats and have a pet treat “cookie” exchange. The party can include a group walk or dog-park outing for the canines, and, for the felines, laser-pointer chasing is always a hit. Break out the catnip for a kitty holiday party. • Include your furry family members in all your holiday traditions. Gift giving isn’t just for humans – put your pets on Santa’s list, as well. Hang stockings on the mantel and stuff them with gourmet treats and toys. Many facilities that offer Santa pictures have special times or days set aside for pet pictures with the jolly old elf.

Include your pets in your family Christmas cards. • It is always nice to think about ways to give back to the community. Donate to a shelter or animal rescue in your pet’s name. Find an organization hosting pet pictures with Santa as a fundraiser and participate. Many organizations host holiday 5K walk/runs that allow pets to accompany their owners. These have a dual benefit: You are donating to the community and getting some exercise.

The holidays can be overwhelming to us, as well as our pets. Don’t forget to provide a quiet place where your pets can relax if a party or guests provide too much stimulation. Signs of stress in dogs include pacing or shaking, whining or barking, excessive yawning and changes in body posture. Cats might avoid their litter boxes and eliminate in inappropriate areas. They also might hide. With this advice in mind, get ready for the holidays with your furry family members and have fun! — Places