Keeping your pets calm, cozy, and out of the chaos
The holidays are full of cheer, family, and food, but for our pets all that extra activity can feel overwhelming. Between visitors, strange new smells, open doors, and a whole lot of tempting table scraps, it is easy for our furry friends to feel a little frazzled.
With a bit of planning, you can make the season less stressful for your pets and yourself so you can focus on what matters most: good food, good company, and wagging tails by the fireplace.
Below are my best holiday safety tips to keep your dogs and cats safe, happy, and relaxed during the busy season.
before the guests arrive
If you are expecting company, start getting your pet used to a little extra commotion in the house. Have friends stop by for short visits, play recordings of doorbells, or gently expose your pets to the sounds of laughter and chatter. Reward calm behavior with safe treats so they associate noise with something positive.
Give your dog a job to do. Whether it is go to your mat, stay in your bed, or relax in your kennel, a clear place to retreat helps your pet feel grounded when things get hectic.
If you will have multiple dogs under one roof, introduce them on neutral ground first. A short walk together before heading inside can work wonders for smoothing introductions.
the day of: manage the excitement
Before guests start arriving or the big turkey hits the table, make sure your dog has burned off some energy. Take a nice long walk, toss a ball, or let them romp with a friend. A tired dog is a calm dog.
When the door starts opening and closing nonstop, have a safe, quiet spot ready, especially if your pet gets nervous around strangers. A bedroom, office, or crate in a back room can become their sanctuary. Add a cozy blanket, favorite toy, or a chew to make it inviting. Check in often for signs of stress.
If your pet tends to bolt when the door opens, make sure they are wearing proper ID tags and that their microchip info is current. Open doors plus excited guests equals easy escape opportunities.
be mindful of open doors and doorbells
Holiday gatherings can mean lots of noise at the front door. If you can, keep your dog in a room away from the entry. If they cannot see the flow of guests, they will be less likely to bark and escalate.
Consider having someone ready to greet visitors before they knock or ring. Fewer startling noises often means a calmer pup throughout the evening.
watch those table scraps
Holiday food smells amazing to pets and guests may want to share. Set expectations early. Rich foods like gravy, stuffing, and turkey skin can cause tummy trouble.
Never offer onions, garlic, grapes, raisins, chocolate, xylitol sweeteners, or alcohol. Cooked bones are risky too. Instead, place a small bowl of your pet’s approved treats on the counter and invite family to spoil them from that dish only.
keep things calm with CBD
If your dog gets anxious when the house is full, a little CBD before the festivities can make a big difference. Try following this helpful guide, and reach out to ask us for help if you need!
Our No More Wiggles formula is especially perfect for the season. It combines calming herbs like Chamomile, Valerian Root, and Lavender with L-Tryptophan and our Mushroom Superblend to help your pet feel relaxed and centered when life gets noisy.
visiting dogs and house rules
Hosting a guest pup can be joyful. It helps to set clear rules for toys, beds, and feeding areas. Keep initial greetings short and sweet. Use parallel walks and calm entrances. Feed in separate spaces to prevent resource guarding.
kids, costumes, and excitement
Holiday outfits and excited kids can be a lot for pets. Teach children to ask before petting and to let a dog approach first. Remind visitors not to chase or crowd animals that head to their safe space.
colder weather tips
Winter walks are part of the fun. Wipe paws after outings to remove road salt and ice melt. Consider a light jacket for short-haired or senior dogs on chilly days. Keep outdoor time short in freezing temps and watch for shivers or paw lifting.
post feast cleanup
After dinner, secure leftovers, trash, and bones. Curious noses will find anything that smells like turkey. Provide fresh water and a final potty break before everyone settles in for the night.
the morning after
On your walk, scan for dropped food, wrappers, and decorations. If you suspect your pet ate something unsafe, contact your veterinarian right away.
enjoy the season
The holidays are about togetherness, and our pets are part of that family too. With a few simple precautions, you will help them enjoy the magic safely from cozy nights by the fire to the last slice of pie for you, not them.
If you want help choosing the right calming routine for your pet this season, reach out anytime at santapaws@austinandkat.com. Our team loves sharing tips to keep tails wagging and hearts happy all winter long.
Wishing you a safe, joyful, and peaceful holiday season.
