Acorn House Pets Column

STAYING CALM at Christmas!

Christmas can be a very exciting time in the home.

It is nice to be able to include pets in our festivities, but remember that for many pets, changes in routine can be unsettling.

A safe haven

It is very important for dogs and cats to be able to take themselves away from busy, noisy environments. Providing a safe haven in a peaceful place that the pet can always access is very helpful. Cats will prefer a covered hiding place in an elevated location (perhaps an igloostyle bed on top of a wardrobe or shelf) so that they can feel safe while watching what is going on beneath them. For dogs, a crate covered with a blanket and with the door removed (so that they are free to come and go as they please) is best. Drop treats into these places when your pet is not there, so that they find them when they return and build a positive association with the safe place. Do not let family members reach into the safe haven or otherwise coax pets out of there. Routines

Wherever possible, it is important to stick to normal routines around feeding, sleeping and exercise. This will make your pet feel secure. It can also be important for avoiding medical problems that can occur from sudden changes in feeding, for example.

Keep dangers away from cats and dogs

Many Christmassy things (lights, trees, parcel ribbon, chocolate, raisins) can be dangerous for cats and dogs if they are chewed or ingested. It can be stressful for pets (and owners) to be constantly approaching these forbidden items and only to be told told off or pushed away. Put dangerous objects out of reach (use baby gates, height, locked boxes as appropriate).

Noise fears and fireworks

Ensure that noise-sensitive pets are out of the room if crackers are going to be pulled. Keep pets indoors on New Years Eve and speak to your vet about anti-anxiety medicines for dogs that are known to have firework fears.