The Definitive Howliday Care Guide for New Orleans Pets

Temperatures are dropping, shops are getting busier, and Christmas is almost here! The extra hustle and bustle of the holidays can bring added stress to pet owners when trying to keep their pets safe and healthy during this time of year. Cooler temperatures and house guests can bring their own set of obstacles for most pet parents, and preparation is key to having a happy and safe holiday season. 

If you have friends or family visiting your home during this time, be sure to keep your pet secure when guests are arriving. Most dogs will get overly excited when guests arrive and are likely to bolt out an open door. If you have cats, they may run and hide when guests arrive, but they are also likely to run out of an open door or even end up in your garage, where they later escape. It can be difficult to catch your pet and get them back in safely when there is a lot of other activity happening in your home or neighborhiood.

We recommend leashing your dog or securing them in another room while guests are arriving and bringing in food or luggage. You can also keep cats secured in a separate room as well to keep them calm until the excitement settles down. Once your door is closed, you can then let your pets out to greet their new guests in an area that is safe for everyone. If your guests have luggage, it is best to keep this in a secured room so that your pets do not accidentally get into any toiletry items or medications. Remind your guests to keep doors closed to rooms that they are staying in, unless someone will be in there. 

This time of year also serves as another reminder to make sure you have ID tags on your pet’s collar, that you keep their collars on them anytime people will be going in and out of your home, or if there is any other excitement in your home that may cause your dog to get lost outside. Microchipping is a great option as well, especially if your dog does not keep their collar on regularly. 

Many cities allow fireworks during New Year’s celebrations which can frighten and disorient your pet, making it harder for them to find their way home if they do get loose. If you have a backyard, make sure your fence is secure and keep gates locked. It is best to keep your pet inside unless you are able to supervise them during this time. Even the best-behaved dogs can become unpredictable when frightened. 

If you are traveling with your dog or if guests will be in your home, remember to keep a safe, quiet space for your pet. Increased activity in the home, loud noises, and kids can cause increased stress in your dog and they may not be as calm and laid back as usual. If your dog is not used to kids, make sure kids are not around your dog unless they are supervised. Give your dog plenty of time to warm up to new people, and let them do this on their own time. If they want to go lay down in a quiet area, make sure they have the space to do so. Even with all of the extra excitement, you are still responsible for your pets and their safety. 

Your dog or cat may be tempted to try new foods that will be around your home. Be sure that your guests know not to feed your pets unless asking first. Keep trash secure and keep food up on the counter or table, out of reach of your dog or cat that may be curious of new smells. Remember that many winter plants can be toxic to your pets.

Live Christmas trees and poinsettias are very popular around this time of year, but your dog or cat might try to taste any new plants in your home. It is best to not have these at all, but if you do, be sure to keep them in a place where our pets will not be able to reach them. Consider putting a baby gate or playpen up around your Christmas tree anytime you aren’t home to keep your pets away from it. 

Our schedules are all a little busier during this time of year and you may not be able to make it home for a walk right after work or over your lunch break. This is a great time to consider hiring a dog walker to make sure your dogs are getting the exercise they need, without cutting into your already busy schedule. A dog walker can come during the day while you work to give your pets a potty break, and to burn off some of that energy so they are ready to relax with you when you get home. 

Caring for your pet doesn’t have to always be stressful. This is a perfect time to buy them a new bed, new toys, or new treats! New toys or treats can help keep them busy and out of the way while you are cooking or entertaining, but they are also a great reward for your pet. A tired dog is a happy dog, and what better way to burn off some energy than by playing with their new toys?

If you live in a colder climate, you can also care for your pet by getting accessories to keep them warm. Consider a sweater or booties if you will be walking in snow or ice. Booties can help protect your dog’s paws from toxic ice-melting chemicals, sharp pieces of ice, and can help keep them warm. Just be sure to give your dog time to get used to wearing them, as they may not like them at first. 

The holiday season may look a little different this year, but caring for your pets doesn’t have to. We know your pets are a part of your family and keeping them safe is something that will always be on your mind regardless of how busy you may be. Whether you are traveling, hosting, or just staying home this season we hope these pet care tips can keep your holidays merry and bright!

Here’s a special treat you can whip up for your pets so that they aren’t left out of the holiday fun.

Temperatures are dropping, shops are getting busier, and Christmas is almost here! The extra hustle and bustle of the holidays can bring added stress to pet owners when trying to keep their pets safe and healthy during this time of year. Cooler temperatures and house guests can bring their own set of obstacles for most…