Holiday festivities are always fun but some might cause stress for your pet. Here are a few things to prevent and/or prepare your pets for during this holiday season.
Signs your pet might be stressed/anxious:
– Lip Licking
– Yawning
– Stiff body
– Shaking or trembling
– Tucker tail or cowering
– Hide or retreat
– Pacing
– Panting
– Excessive Barking
– Growling, snapping or biting
Change in Routine
With the hustle and bustle of the holidays, it’s easy to forget a walk, have a late meal or forget a potty break, but all these subtle changes can cause stress to our little furriends. Sticking to a routine and spending quality time is very important during any busy season.
Decorations
Getting into the holiday spirit included flashy lights, a big tree, moving and/or talking decorations and so much more big and little decorations. Any new object or sound can cause anxiety and stress to an animal as it’s out of the norm.
Festive attire
Skip the festive attire. If your dog’s not a big fan of wearing holiday clothing or accessories, give them a break this year.
Watch the little ones
Family gatherings are a big part of the season. Grabby or rambunctious children might scare and/or cause anxiety to your pet. Educate the parents and children on how to properly approach your pet or keep them separate completely to prevent any accident and emergencies.
Written by Monica Blanchard, RVT
