Handy tips to help keep your pets happy … and healthy … this Christmas!
CHRISTMAS is packed with fun, noise and a hype of activity, but what do our pets think of all the commotion?
Even the most social and friendly of pets can be overwhelmed during the jam-packed festive season.
Below are some tips from the RSPCA on how to help keep your pets happy and healthy.
- If you think your dog may be overwhelmed with lots of new people, give them time away from the action and offer a yummy chew or filled enrichment toy.
- Do you have a crate or suitable area for your dog to wind down? Even the most social of dogs will need a break from the activity.
- Assign an adult (not involved in supervising children) to be in charge of your dog if you can’t be – being sure they look out for signs of stress.
- Do not allow children to hug or kiss your dog. Dogs do not like hugs and kisses! Even a dog who tolerates this under normal circumstances, may not tolerate this from strangers.
- What signs should I look out for if my dog is stressed? If your dog licks their lips, shows the whites of their eyes or turns their head away when a child or adult is patting them, intervene immediately. These are just a few signals dogs show when they are stressed.
Other signs that your dog does not welcome attention from children or adults include:
- The dog tries to walk away or tries to hide under furniture.
- The dog freezes and becomes very still with their mouth closed. They may be staring intently at the person bothering them and may growl.
- The dog growls or raises fur along their back.
Supervise at all times!
Prevention is the key to help ensure your family, friends and pets all have a Merry Christmas too.
Keep your pet healthy and avoid the Christmas Pud!
Here are some foods to avoid that are toxic to dogs and cats:
- cooked bones
- onions
- garlic
- sauces
- chocolate
- caffeine
- nuts
- avocado
- raisins
- sultanas (including Christmas cake)
- fatty and preserved meats.
If in doubt, keep your pet on their usual diet!