Keeping Your Fur Kids Comfortable During Holiday Stress
The holidays bring a mix of joy, traditions and plenty of excitement; but our furry family members can sometimes feel overwhelmed by the sudden changes in routine. With visitors coming and going, decorations filling the house, and travel plans on the horizon, it is important to make sure our fur kids feel safe, supported, and calm.
Here are a few simple tips to help keep your pets comfortable and happy during the holiday season.
Create a quiet, cozy retreat
Even the most social pets need a place to decompress. Set up a calm corner with a crate or soft bed, familiar blankets, and their favorite toys. This gives your pet a place to retreat when the festivities become a little too busy. Encourage visiting friends and family to respect this safe zone so your pets can relax without interruptions.
Tip: add an enrichment toy or single ingredient chew to their safe space to provide your fur kid with extra stress relieving enrichment!
Stick to familiar routines
Holiday schedules can get unpredictable, which can cause unnecessary stress for furry family members. Try to keep feeding times, walks, potty breaks, and play sessions as close to normal as possible.
Familiar rhythms offer reassurance and help your pets feel grounded while the rest of the house celebrates.
Support Their Wellness From the Inside Out
Extra excitement can impact anxiety levels, and overall wellness. Consider adding natural calming supplements like our Stress Response Support Supplement, high-value treats for special rewards, or gut-friendly toppers to support your fur kids through the season.
Keep Holiday Hazards out of Reach
Holiday decor is festive, but it can be tempting for curious pets. Tinsel, ribbons, scented candles, and certain seasonal plants can all pose risks. Keep potentially dangerous items out of reach, especially if you have young puppies and kittens in the home, and choose pet-safe alternatives whenever possible.
Foods like cooked bones, onions, stuffing, gravy and desserts are unsafe for pets to consume. Remind guests to store food securely and avoid sharing holiday treats that can upset digestion or be unsafe for pets.
Make Movement a Priority
A quick walk, a fun indoor play session (our own grrls love a good game of tug!) or a moment of fresh air can work wonders for stressed fur kids. Regular movement helps burn off built-up energy and supports both physical and mental health. Plus, it is a nice way for pawrents to take a break from holiday chaos too.
Take your pup for a walk before guests arrive to expend some excess energy, or play fetch after the festivities are over as a way to decompress and spend time with your fur baby.
Offer Extra Reassurance and Affection
The holidays can feel different for everyone, including your pets. A little extra love can go a long way. Gentle pets, soothing words, or simple one-on-one time can help your furry family members feel secure, even when the environment around them is a little noisier than usual.
Offering a high-value treat can be a great way to affirm positive behaviors amidst the holiday chaos. If you notice your pet needs difficulty settling, offer a treat and a few moments of your time to help get them comfortable!
The holidays are meant to be joyful for the whole family, fur kids included. With a few thoughtful adjustments, pawrents can help ensure their pets feel safe, supported and comfortable through every festive moment. When we prioritize their health and happiness, the season feels even more joyful 🧡
