The holidays are a time to be with family and loved ones, filled with busy schedules, treats and joy. Be certain your holiday happiness extends to all members of the family by keeping these tips in mind while planning and enjoying the holidays.
1. Keep your dog’s schedule as consistent as possible.
You may be running around from party to party but you still need to see to your dog’s needs. Plan when he will get his exercise. Definitely plan ahead about logistics- are you traveling with your pet or having him stay at DAPR? Plan now! If he’s not used to staying in a kennel a one night stay before your trip can really help him feel more comfortable.
2. Don’t overfeed your dog!
I never recommend feeding your dog extra food, but people tend to want to spoil their dogs around the holidays. Look for other, healthier, ways to spoil your pet. I’m a fan of the Bark Box (www.barkbox.com) where your pet receives a care package in the mail each month- a gift that keeps on giving!
A dog’s impulse control has huge effects on every area of their life. Click To Tweet3. Holiday toxins.
There are several special holiday staples that are dangerous and toxic for dogs. Be aware of ivy, mistletoe, and poinsettia plants that are toxic if dogs eat them. Also keep an eye out in the kitchen for things like chocolate- bittersweet and baking chocolate are worse for your dog than candy bars.
4. Holiday decorations.
Tether your holiday tree so it can’t easily get knocked over (speaking from experience!). Put the larger ornaments on the bottom of the tree and cherished ones up top. You may want to train your dog to stay away from your tree and we sell a product on our website that will teach you how to keep your dog from crossing a rope on the ground. Many people find that helpful to keep their dog back away from the tree a bit.
Be safe about your extra electrical wires so that your dog does not trip on them.
Tinsel, if you choose to use it on your tree, is appealing to some dogs. If ingested, it could block the intestines or even cut through the intestinal wall.