Helping Your Pets Cope with the Holidays

I know for many of us the holiday season will look a little bit different this year. If you are still gathering with friends and family, I want to provide a few tips and tricks to help your furry family members cope. These strategies not only work for the holidays, but anytime large (or small) groups of people gather at your home.

Provide a safe, quiet place for your pet to retreat.

Make a cozy spot away from the main gathering place for your pet to go. Add their favorite toys, bed, blankets, and play some soothing music to drown out any noise that may stress them out.

Tire out your pet with a walk or play session with training to follow.

Take your pup on a nice, long decompressing hike or long walk that morning to help them settle when the time comes. Don't have time for a long hike or walk? No worries! Just do training sessions throughout the day to work their brain and get them mentally tired.

Give your pet a project or puzzle toy to work on.

My favorites are snuffle mats, frozen kongs, lick mats, and kibble dispensing puzzle toys. Anything to keep their mind occupied for an extended period of time.

Make sure your guests understand your expectations (i.e. no jumping or human food).

Ensure all of your guests understand what your house rules are and what they should do in the case that your dog may perform undesirable behaviors. Make sure you set your pup up for success by using the tools you have practiced with (i.e. baby gates, leashing them to greet guests, crating them, a place cue, etc.) And make sure you always have treats on hand.

Get your friends or family involved in training.

Give your friends treats and have your pup practice polite greetings. Have everyone form a circle and play a recall or touch game.

With these tips, your friends and your pup are sure to have a great time!