With Thanksgiving quickly approaching, and Hanukkah and Christmas on the December horizon, it’s time to start getting your pets prepped for guests and the holiday dinner table! Even the most well-behaved, and disciplined, pets can go astray with all of the delicious, edible holiday temptations. In addition to food temptations, there are a lot of other factors to consider when having your pets around for big holiday gatherings, including accommodating your guests.
Here are some helpful tips for making sure that your holiday gathering goes off without a hitch – and without too much dog or cat hair.
Ask your guests ahead of time about allergies. Some people have very sensitive allergies to cats and dogs so make sure you let those who suffer from these allergies know that you have a pet. They may need to decline the invitation but you can also make arrangements for your pet at a local kennel and clean up very well afterward, by vacuuming and dusting, so that they can still comfortably attend.
Distance pets from the initial commotion. Pets can be easily riled up and stressed out when having a big gathering, especially if it’s not something they’re used to. Start the party of by keeping your furry friend in a separate room, with food and toys, then after the chaos of everyone arriving has died down let them come out and mingle.
Keep food at a high level. Do not place food down anywhere that your pets can reach it. Even the most well mannered pets will be tempted by these accessible treats.
Make sure you have an ID tag and that it is up to date. With so many people coming and going through your door it’s a possibility that your pet may accidentally get out. In case this happens you’ll want to make your pet is easily identifiable so you can get them back as quickly as possible.
Don’t just assume everyone likes animals. You may love snuggling up with your pet on the couch, or regularly feed them table scraps when you’re having dinner alone, but during the holidays with so many other people things are different. If you know that someone who is coming over is scared of dogs, and you have a dog, or not a huge fan of pets consider boarding your pet at a local kennel.
Feed your pet at the same time everyone else is eating. This will discourage them from begging and distract them, at least for a little while, while everyone is enjoying their meal. Afterwards you can reward them with some turkey bits in their bowl for doing a good job.
Please also be aware of these 10 Thanksgiving foods that the ASPCA says should be totally off-limits to our furry friends.
- sage
- chocolate
- candy with xylitol
- bread dough
- batter with raw eggs
- onions and garlic
- macadamia nuts
- raisins and grapes
- rich or spicy foods
- alcohol
[Source: ASPCA]
Photo by Lisa D. via Free Images