Fear Free Holiday Tips

The holiday season brings new experiences and potential challenges for our dogs. Check out our valuable tips on keeping your dog calm and happy during festive gatherings. With some planning, every pet can have a happy holiday season!🎄

Do make plans ahead of time for where your pet will be when you have visitors, and don’t force them into any situations where they appear at all uncomfortable. Make a safe place for your dog either in a room, crate or x pen, where they can safely be away from all the hustle and bustle associated with family gatherings or noisy events such as fireworks. Unless they suffer from separation anxiety, most dogs appreciate the opportunity to be away from the chaos.
Do be certain that their safe place is a place that the dog loves to go willingly, not a place that they have to be forced to go. Make sure that the safe place is in a quiet area of the home and that it contains a comfortable bed and a few toys. When confining the dog to their safe place, and as long as the dog isn’t likely to eat his toy or become possessive when other pets are around, do leave a very special long-lasting treat such as a stuffed Kong or other food puzzle toy.
Do leave a fan, music, or white noise of some type playing to help mask the scary sounds. This is especially helpful if the dog is afraid of fireworks or other noises.
Don’t ever use the safe place as a place to punish the dog!
Don’t allow children or other guests to disturb the dog while confined to their safe place.

Do watch your dog closely around guests and activities to be sure that they are not becoming overwhelmed and anxious.
Do ask your visitors not to pursue your dog or cat if they are walking away.
Do discourage visitors from luring your pet to take treats directly from their hands. If the dog is at all uncomfortable about approaching strangers, this can be very stressful and can result in a bite!
Do ask visitors to toss your dog his own food treats if they wish to make friends, not human food that might cause an upset tummy.
Do be cautious about putting holiday costumes on pets. Many dogs do not like having clothing placed on them. Watch body language closely and if your pet is stiff, avoids eye contact, moves away, or looks at all anxious, stop and promptly remove the costume.