Blog originally posted by our sister company – PawHootz Pet Resort.
These holiday tips for dogs will ensure your dog stays paw-sitive and relaxed through the madness! The holidays can get pretty crazy. With a little planning – your dog can receive the best care and have a great time during the busy holiday season.
1.Exercise Importance
Before the party starts make sure your dog has been exercised properly – a tired dog tends to behave better than one that is full of energy. The amount of exercise a dog receives depends on multiple factors. These factors include: age, breed, size, body type, and overall health. Based on these factors, the general rule of thumb is that your dog should be receiving between 30 minutes and 2 hours of exercise.
2.”Safe Spaces”
Set up a quiet” safe space” for your dog to relax in and get away from the guests in case he gets overwhelmed or too excited. Depending on your dog – it can be a small room or even a crate. This temporary “safe space” can be used as guests are arriving and leaving to ensure your dog’s safety while your door is open (reduces escape incidents). The “safe space” should have some fresh water, a chew toy and a comfy bed to ensure your dog’s comfort.
3.Doggy Leftovers
If you are planning to give your dog leftovers – make sure it’s only small amounts of food. Holidays are not the time to try new food with your dog since it can upset their tummies. For example, if you will be giving them a little turkey – make sure it’s only meat or cartilage. Absolutely no bones or greasy/fatty foods.
Plan ahead and feed your dog a smaller meal than normal the morning of a holiday so you can add a bit of holiday yummies and treats without overfeeding.
4. Ensure Guests/Families Respecting Boundaries
Tell your guests and family members not to feed your dog; you want to keep track of what he or she is putting in their system and how much.
5. Food Placement
Ensure all snacks and other foods are kept within human reach only – we don’t want your dog to eat anything that could potentially cause a health hazard. Take special care with foods like raisins, sweeteners, chocolate, onions, alcoholic beverages and other foods that may be toxic to dogs. Consider your dog’s allergies and make sure your guests and family members respect your pup’s health.
6. Stretching it Out
Most people usually take a little walk as part of the festivities after dinner and before dessert. This is the perfect time to take your dog out for a walk too! Even if the people don’t have this tradition or are not big on walking – don’t forget to take the dog out. If not for a walk then at least to go potty or for a quick stretch.
We hope these tips help make the holidays easier for families with furry friends! Happy Holidays from all of our staff! Be safe and happy!
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