Keeping Your Fur-Babies Happy and Safe this Holiday Season

The most wonderful time of the year is upon us again! For humans, this means delicious eats, festive times with loved ones and enjoyable holiday traditions. But for our furry friends, all the festive changes can be a bit bewildering. 

At Walling Vet Tech, we want every pup and kitty to feel just as merry and bright as we do during this magical time of year. 

As veterinary clinics work tirelessly to care for pets during this busy holidays, it is important we take measures to minimize stress and keep our animals safe. 

Here are some tips pet parents can follow to help their dogs and cats feel secure and comfortable through the various celebrations:

Manage Noise Sensitivity 

One potential stressor is noise sensitivity. While carols, fireworks and gatherings fill us with cheer, loud or sudden sounds can shake things up for pets not used to the commotion. Make sure hides are cozy and accessible so they have a quiet spot to snooze when things feel overwhelming. Playing calming music or keeping the TV on can also help mask jarring noises outside.  

Beware of Food Dangers

Remember, tasty temptations we enjoy aren't suitable for puppy tummies. Chocolate, raisins, onions and other human edibles should be stored away high and out of reach to avoid any nibbles that could cause upset delicate tummies. 

Watch out for small bones, which pose a choking hazard. You might also want to consider designating pet-friendly cooking spaces to prevent accidental food contamination. 

Tis better to be safe than having the Grinch steal their holiday joy! 

Prepare for Inclement Weather

Bad weather is no fun either. When snow falls or temperatures plummet, paws prefer to stay cozy indoors. Shorten walks and wipe down paws after outside romps to avoid ingesting de-icing chemicals. Never leave pets unattended in cars, as temperatures inside drop dangerously fast even when parked for "just a minute".  

Manage Introduction of Guests and Decorations

Houseguests bring people fun but can overwhelm shy pets that are  not used to new faces or energy levels. Give your furry  family members a quiet room to retreat when guests arrive, and always ensure introductions are gradual and calm. Supervise interactions until trust is built.

Holiday decor  like tinsel, lights and breakable ornaments also require pet-proofing. Place off limits items up high and use barriers to block access, since some faves could cause intestinal trouble if nibbled. 

Maintain Daily Schedules as Much as Possible

Try maintaining regular schedules, if you can, amidst all the excitement. Mealtimes, play sessions and routines provide comfort when other things change.

Provide interactive food dispensing toys as enrichment when away from home on longer periods. Ask a trusted neighbor or professional pet sitter to check in regularly if traveling.

Also, make sure litter boxes are clean and walks are taken on time for happy fur-balls all season long!

Keep the Holidays Stress-free

Here at Walling Vet Tech, we want clinics to feel just as stress-free so care for pets stays top-notch too. Our comprehensive tech solutions like managed IT services and cybersecurity keep operations running smoothly through the busiest holiday periods. That way vets can focus on what matters most - giving every furry friend the best vet care and happiest holidays ever!

So cuddle up, grab some cocoa and enjoy this magical season together with your furry loved ones. Just a few adjustments will ensure tails are wagging and winter woofs are plentiful. Wishing you and your whole fur-family the paw-somest holidays from our vet technology family to yours!