Pets Are Family Too

Tis the season! The holidays are among us and it is time for good friends, good food and family. This week we celebrate Thanksgiving Holiday in the United States. During this time, food is the centerpiece of our giving thanks that we enjoy with friends family and sometimes strangers. But what about our pet family members? We have listed 10 tips to make sure your pet enjoys the holidays as much as you do!
Holiday Tips Part I

1. Do not feed your pets turkey bones or any bones for that matter. Bones can splinter and break putting your pets at risk for bowel obstruction or perforation and choking.
2. No chocolate for your pet family members because it contains highly toxic theobromine, which can cause a negative reaction in dogs and cats even when eaten in small quantities.
3. Watch your family and friends around food and your pets. Remind them not to feed your pets scraps and snacks that they may have lying around in their plates.
4. Holiday treats for your pets should be celebrated with homemade dog and homemade cat treats.
5. Keep garbage secure and off the floors away from pet access. I do know of any dog and some cats who would not want go buffet style in the garbage pile of food.
6. Remember not everyone likes dogs and cats, so gradually allow your guests to get used to your pets in the house by setting boundaries for your pets. Some dogs will almost always run up to people out of excitement and the outcome may be shocking for the guest as well as the dog.
7. Your pets may not like all of your guests at first meeting, so try to keep guests and visitors from trying to pet or be “too familiar” with your pet. They may frighten the pets which may arouse them to cause biting and other acts of fear.
8. Designate a “quiet room” for your pet so they can retreat from the crowds to a place designated as their safe zone. This will give your dog or cat a place to nap and simply settle down from all of the holiday excitement and re-energize.
9. Be sure to keep an eye on the water bowls. A house full of people can easily stumble and accidentally knock over water bowls and cause your pets to go thirsty. Keep their water bowls filled with fresh water.
10. Keep your eye on your pets and know where they are at all times. Many guests are prone to leave doors open or go in and out of the house which is a prime time for your pet to go for a walk or escape the holiday cheer. Make sure they have their tags and identification during the festivities just in case they make a break for it.

Remember holidays are for fun and good cheer. Through it all remember not to allow your pet family member to feel neglected or ignored. After all, the holidays are for “all of your family members”. Stay tuned for more Holiday Tips for your pets. Happy Holidays!

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