Everything I always teach is that your dog should come into your family and enhance the household. In turn there will be a great relationship between the humans and the dog in the house.
I also always say "Set your dog up for success". If your dog is in a no-win situation, then it will end badly.
So as the festive period is so different to other times of the year I hope this post will help you and your dog(s) stay safe and stress free over the festive period and beyond.
1) Have a safe place.
Dogs need far more sleep than us. If your house has suddenly turned into Santas grotto with music and lots of people, it is important that the dog can get some down time. A tired overwhelmed dog is no different to a toddler that needs their nap. A crate or a room where your dog can have quiet time with a nice chew is really important.
When people arrive doors are open, people are in high spirits, and this can lead to a dog running down the road or a dog getting over excited and silly. Why not pop your dog somewhere safe and get you guests in. Once all has calmed down introduce your dog.
Make sure if your dog is likely to wander that there are two doors between your dog and the road. I find guests leave doors open and dogs can take advantage of this.
2) Food and Treats
I am sure you have all seen the post warning you about cheap raw hide treats that are in many shops. Suddenly feeding new or inferior feeds/ treat to your dog can be dangerous. I'm sure we have all experience that time we had digestive issues, it is painful and really awful. So, watch the scraps your dog is getting and monitor the treats your dog is bought by others.
I always have Pro-kolin in my cupboards Any sign of an upset stomach and mine get this.
I also always have in Oralade
Both can help with mild diarrhoea and sickness and are a great first aid however, always seek your Vet's advice.
If your pet eats the following you should contact your Vet:
Chocolate
Mince Pies
Christmas Pudding
Onion Gravy
Alcohol.
Festive Foliage can also be a killer
Mistletoe
Holly
Poinsettia
Amaryllis
3) Foreign objects
There is going to be so many new things in your house that can be harmful to your pet.
The main thing is your Christmas tree. My advice is put your puppy pen round it or have it up high. Be careful of putting gifts that contain food and other harmful items under or on the tree.
As a child, my friends dog died after drinking the water from the base of the tree. So, another reason to block it off.
You are likely to have lots of leftovers. My personal pet hate is foil and cling film, if your dog finds foil or cling film dripping in something nice they are likely to eat it. I prefer plastic boxes.
Anti-Freeze, did you know that this is very sweet and attractive to pets. After reading a very sad story it appears anti-freeze is in snow globes so be careful that they are out the way of your dog. If your dog knocks them over, they may lick the contents.
4) Be Organised.
Make sure you have enough of your dog's normal food. If they are on Medication stock up on that too. Have the out of hours Vet number handy.
5) Out and About.
Potentially your local walk is going to be a lot busier with new dogs about. Boxing Day and New Year's Day can be hectic in some popular walking spots. Just because you like the place doesn't mean your dog will enjoy it. Pick the walks your dog will like don't just take your dog where you want to go.
If you stop for drinks and food, make sure your Dog has space. It is not fair on your dog if they are under your table, and someone invades their space. Remember "set your dog up for success".
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