The holiday season is a time of joy and celebration, but amidst the hustle and bustle, it’s essential to consider our beloved pets. At Fox Run Animal Hospital, we understand that the holidays can be a bit overwhelming for our furry companions, with changes in routines, new scents, and bustling activities. Here are some heartwarming holiday pet tips to ensure your pets have a paw-sitively happy Christmas!
Keep Your Pet’s Merry Routine:
Do you have a pet that has an uncanny way of knowing what time it is? We see this in animals that wake up their pet parents in the morning or come and bother them when it is time to eat or bring their leash for a walk. Animals are creatures of habit and when their routines are interfered with it can cause them anxiety. Amidst the holiday chaos, try to maintain your pet’s regular feeding, sleep, and play times. Whether it’s a morning meal for your cat or an afternoon stroll for your dog, sticking to the routine provides comfort and stability. Plus, a festive family walk after a hearty meal is a great way to spread cheer for everyone!
Show Them Some Love:
Make sure your pets know they’re not forgotten in the holiday hustle. Even if you miss a play session, snuggle with them at night while enjoying a festive show or reading a cozy book. Spending quality time with your pets not only brings them joy but can also be a stress-reliever for you!
Playtime and Exercise for Joy:
Just like us, pets need their dose of exercise and play to stay happy. Gift your furry friend a new toy and, more importantly, engage in playtime with them. Interacting with your pet not only helps them release stress but also strengthens the bond between you and your four-legged companion.
Melodies of Comfort:
Soothe your pet’s holiday anxieties with calming music. Platforms like YouTube offer specially curated music for dogs and cats, perfect for creating a serene atmosphere during stressful situations like parties and guests, storms or festive fireworks.
Team Effort for Pet Care:
If the holiday schedule gets too hectic for you, enlist the help of family, friends, or consider doggy daycare or a pet sitter. Having a support system for walks, playtime, and feeding can make a significant difference. Ensure those helping out have all the details, from feeding schedules to emergency vet contacts.
Holiday Pet Tips for Traveling:
Schedule a visit with Fox Run Animal Hospital and ensure your pet has a clean bill of health before you travel. Also, if you are traveling out of your state or country you need to know any animal health requirements for your destination e.g., vaccinations, veterinarian health certificate, etc.
Plan to travel with your pet by car? Plan ahead to make the trip stress free for you and your pet. Here is a link to an article from Go Pet Friendly: Tips for Traveling With Pets In The Car.
Prepare for Boarding Bliss:
If your holiday plans involve traveling and boarding your pet, make the transition smoother. Gradually familiarize your pet to the boarding facility and consider a trial stay of at least 24 hours for those furry friends who might be a bit nervous. To ease separation anxiety, bring along a familiar rug, blanket, and their favorite toy. Your thoughtful preparations will ensure your pet feels secure and happy during their holiday stay.
Keep your pets safe from holiday hazards:
Last year we discussed tips to keep your pets safe from holiday hazards and the cold winter months. Pets, being curious creatures, can become interested in holiday decorations and people food that can be dangerous to their health. And temperatures in Michigan’s winter months can drop to below zero. As we enter the holiday season, it is a good time to review these tips and keep your furry loved ones safe from holiday and cold weather hazards: Holiday Safety Tips from Fox Run Animal Hospital.
Final Words from Santas Helpers on Holiday Pet Tips
While the holidays may throw a wrench into even the best-laid plans, a little foresight can go a long way towards keeping your pets stress-free. A happy pet equals a happier holiday season for all! Wishing you and your furry companions the warmest and merriest of holidays!
Happy Holidays!
The Fox Run Animal Hospital Team
