Preparing Your Dog for the Holidays
You may fear that your four-legged friend will go through sensory overload throughout the holidays. If so, they may need a little distraction to avoid that holiday-induced anxiety. There are some dogs who may be overstimulated by new sights, smells, and noises. Trust us, there are a lot of those during the holidays! This article will give you some tips on how to prepare your dog for the holiday season.
- Go explore! It’s time to introduce your dog to a whole new world. Don’t be afraid to let them see new sights. Take adventures to local dog parks, pet-friendly restaurants, parks, and other areas which may have noisy distractions and unfamiliar smells. This will help them adapt and adjust more when there are unexpected changes during the holidays.
- Desensitize! As we know, the winter season brings colder weather. If you are struggling to come up with indoor activities to help your dog acclimate, navigate the internet! Crashing noises, fireworks, and strange voices can be played on your phone which will help tune your distracted dog into the interruptions that are synonymous with holiday cheer. Bump up the intensity every few days so that your dog gets used to the unexpected.
- Playtime is important! It is always a good idea to place higher focus on your four-legged friend during the holiday season. They enjoy one-on-one time with their favorite person. After all, that is the best gift they could ever ask for.
- Happy place! A hectic schedule and a surplus of activities from decorating to socializing with friends and family will have you wanting “me-time”. Everyone needs a little getaway from time to time. Your dog is no different! Create a safe place with their favorite blanket and toys. Add some sort of white noise to the environment so that your dog can enjoy a little rest and relaxation.
Your main objective as a pet owner is to ensure that your dog is happy, healthy, and safe. Keep in mind that dogs often react out of fear and anxiety. If you take the time for reassurance and accommodation, they will be in good hands. Don’t forget to give them their favorite holiday treat along the way!
