{"id":164,"date":"2024-11-07T16:32:34","date_gmt":"2024-11-08T00:32:34","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.orovilleanimalhealthcenter.com\/blog\/?p=164"},"modified":"2024-11-08T16:34:15","modified_gmt":"2024-11-09T00:34:15","slug":"holiday-hazards-how-to-keep-your-pets-safe-during-festivities","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.orovilleanimalhealthcenter.com\/blog\/holiday-hazards-how-to-keep-your-pets-safe-during-festivities\/","title":{"rendered":"Holiday Hazards: How to Keep Your Pets Safe During Festivities"},"content":{"rendered":"
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There\u2019s so much to love about the holidays\u2014including all the activities. With all of our commitments and distractions, our pets can swing between mildly perturbed to downright unhinged. It\u2019s not their fault that their daily routine flies out the window this time of year, or that their typically calm home is inundated with a constantly ringing doorbell, tempting decorations, and guests. With a little bit of effort,  you can keep your pets safe during festivities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

The Comfort of Routine<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

If possible, keep your pet\u2019s meal times, bathroom breaks, and exercise\/enrichment opportunities at the same times every day. Hire a pet sitter or dog walker on days that require longer absences from home. An active dog may benefit from a couple days a week at a doggie daycare to keep any unwanted or anxious behavior<\/a> at bay. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Identification Matters<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Because pets struggle with disruption<\/a> in many unpredictable ways that cause fearful reactions, we recommend a thorough assessment of your pet\u2019s collar, ID tags, and microchip. Make any changes or adjustments as necessary. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take a walk around your property to check on any gaps beneath fences or spaces between gates. Look at window screens for any rips or tears, and install safety gates if your pet exhibits any signs of fleeing through the front door.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A Place of Quiet<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Crate training is really useful throughout the year, but can be indispensable during the holidays. If you ever worry about your pet\u2019s safety,<\/a> or that of your guests, the crate is critical to maintaining a peaceful family gathering. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

When you gather for a meal or gift exchange, if your pet shows signs of stress, confusion, or anxiety, invite them to take a short break in their crate. Alternatively, set up a back room with cozy bedding<\/a>, fresh water, snacks, and toys to help them get through any party with confidence. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Holiday Pet Safety<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

A major component to keeping your pet\u2019s safe during the holidays has to do with holiday food. Be sure your pet is never offered, or has unsupervised access to, any of these dangerous foods:<\/p>\n\n\n\n