Hosting holiday guests can be a joyous occasion, but it becomes a bit more challenging when they bring their furry friends along. Ensuring your home is pet-friendly and safe for both pets and people is essential. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you prepare your home for the holidays:
Step 1: Pet-Proof Your Home
Secure Hazardous Items
- Store cleaning supplies, medications, and any toxic substances in cabinets or on high shelves.
- Tape down or hide electrical cords that curious pets might chew on.
- Secure trash cans with lids to prevent pets from rummaging through them.
Remove Dangerous Decorations
- Avoid using tinsel, as it can be harmful if ingested by pets.
- Opt for shatter-proof ornaments, and hang them higher on the tree.
- Keep lit candles and fragile decorations out of reach.
Protect Your Furniture
- Use pet covers or throws to protect furniture from claws and fur.
- Consider using a pet gate to restrict access to certain rooms.
Step 2: Create a Pet-Friendly Environment
Designate a Safe Space
- Set up a quiet area where pets can retreat if they become overwhelmed. Include a comfortable bed, toys, and water.
- Ensure the space is away from the main hustle and bustle of the holiday activities.
- Use a crate if the dog is accustomed to using one. We all need our quiet time!
Provide Entertainment
- Have a selection of toys available to keep pets occupied.
- Consider interactive toys or treat-dispensing puzzles to engage their minds.
Step 3: Be Mindful of Holiday Foods
Foods to Avoid
- Chocolate: Toxic to both dogs and cats.
- Grapes and Raisins: Can cause kidney failure in dogs.
- Onions and Garlic: Harmful to cats and dogs, and can lead to anemia.
- Alcohol: Even a small amount can be dangerous.
- Bones: Cooked bones can splinter and cause injury.
- Nuts: Some nuts, like macadamia nuts, are toxic to dogs.
Safe Treat Alternatives
- Offer pet-specific treats or small amounts of plain, cooked turkey (without skin or seasoning).
- Carrots and green beans can be healthy snacks for dogs.
Step 4: Prepare for Guests
Communicate with Guests
- Inform your guests about any house rules regarding pets, such as not feeding table scraps or keeping certain doors closed.
- If guests are bringing pets, ask about their pet’s behavior and any special needs.
Provide Essentials
- Ensure there’s enough food, water, and supplies like litter or waste bags for visiting pets.
- Have extra leashes and collars available in case a guest forgets theirs.
Step 5: Monitor and Adjust
Keep an Eye on Pets
- Regularly check on pets to ensure they’re comfortable and not stressed.
- Be aware of any changes in behavior that might indicate discomfort or illness.
Adjust as Needed
- If a pet seems stressed, consider moving them to a quieter area.
- Be flexible and ready to accommodate any unplanned needs, such as a last-minute vet visit.
By following these steps, you can create a welcoming and safe environment for both your human and furry holiday guests. Enjoy the festive season knowing that everyone, including the pets, is comfortable and secure! And if you’re going to out to celebrate at one of our local events, like Holiday of Lights at The Botanical gardens, call on us to visit your pets so they don’t feel stressed or abandoned.
We can also feed and give medications on time. Contact us here Create Account – Claws and Paws Pet Sitting Service – Portal to get started!