Another silly season is upon us, and celebrating Christmas with your dog can be a joyous and festive experience. However accidents can happen! To keep everyone safe here are some tips to ensure a happy Christmas for both you and your furry friend:
Pet-Friendly Tree:
Secure your Christmas tree to prevent it from falling over if your dog gets curious or playful.
Consider using pet-friendly ornaments and decorations that won’t harm your dog if they decide to investigate! And hang the real treasures higher up and out of reach.
Avoid hanging edible ornaments that might be tempting but harmful.
Watch the Cords:
Be mindful of electrical cords from Christmas lights, as dogs may be tempted to chew on them. This can pose a safety risk.
Pet-Safe Plants:
Be cautious with holiday plants like mistletoe and poinsettias, as they can be toxic to dogs. Opt for pet-friendly alternatives or keep them out of your pet’s reach.
Include Your Dog:
Include your dog in the holiday fun by letting them be part of family activities. Take them for a group walk, include them in family photos, or let them join in the gift opening.
Healthy Treats:
While indulging in holiday feasts, be cautious not to share foods that can be harmful to dogs (e.g., chocolate, bones, onions, and certain nuts). Instead, prepare some dog-friendly treats, like peanut butter and pumpkin biscuits or frozen strawberries.
Gifts for Your Dog:
Wrap up a special gift for your dog to open on Christmas morning. It could be a new toy or a tasty treat.
Exercise and Playtime:
Maintain your dog’s regular exercise routine – a tired dog is less likely to get into mischief and more likely to enjoy a peaceful holiday!
Quiet Retreat Space:
With the hustle and bustle of holiday gatherings, and loud noises such as fireworks or holiday crackers, ensure your dog has a quiet, safe space to retreat to if they become overwhelmed or stressed.
Training Reinforcement:
Use the holiday season as an opportunity to reinforce basic training commands. This can be especially helpful if you’re expecting guests.
Check Dog ID and Microchip:
With guests coming and going, make sure your dog’s ID tags and microchip information are up to date. This is important in case your dog accidentally escapes during the festivities.
Vaccination:
Your dog may come into contact with more dogs than usual during this time, so it’s important to make sure their C5 vaccinations are up-to-date. This is especially important if they are heading into care across the holidays.
Plan ahead:
Be sure to book your dog’s holiday accommodation early to avoid disappointment – it is usually the most popular time for kennels, and spaces fill fast. And if it will be your dog’s first time at a kennel, book a tour and perhaps even a trial well in advance to give your dog time to meet some of the team and have a sniff around.
Your dog is unique, and it’s essential to be mindful of their needs and preferences – by incorporating these tips, you can create a festive and safe environment for your dog during the holiday season.
