Denton County Magazine • Nov_Dec 21 • PETS TAKE A Holiday

Other than holiday meals, which may mean more table scraps, pets don’t enjoy year-end celebrations like we do. Unfamiliar guests, pet sitters and kennels can disrupt their habits and routines. Local pet experts offer tips on how to help cats and dogs withstand the holiday hubbub.

Your sister and brother-in-law flew into town for the holidays with their three young kids in tow. They arrive at your home for the big family celebration, but before things even get started, mayhem ensues. Their youngest starts chasing your cat around the house, as the feline flees in terror. Your overly excited dog is jumping on the other two, who either are squealing with delight or screaming in fear -- it’s hard to tell. The next thing you know, the dog has torn open the gift bag your sister brought, the cat has knocked over the Christmas tree and your nerves are frazzled.

Fortunately, this kind of holiday debacle can be avoided with a little planning.

Create a buffer. “I’m a huge advocate for crate training,” said Paula Davis, owner of Paula’s Canine Academy in Denton. She recommends putting dogs in a crate or a closed-off room before guests arrive, and letting them out to interact with company once everyone has settled in. Similarly, cats can get stressed by increased activity and unfamiliar people and should have a safe space where they can be alone.

Consider a kennel. If you’re hosting a big gathering or heading out of town, boarding your pets is a smart move. If your dog has never been to a kennel, schedule a play date or overnight stay before your trip, so Fido will be familiar with the new surroundings. Davis recommends hiring a pet sitter to care for older dogs in their home, though, because a busy boarding facility can be stressful for seniors.

Do a test run. If you plan to use a sitter, book a trial run before heading out of town, advised Robert Knox, director of programs for the Texas Coalition for Animal Protection. “You want to make sure your pet is familiar with being watched by someone else,” he said. A good pet sitter will ask questions about things like your pet’s feeding schedule, medications, favorite toys and personality quirks.

Choose décor carefully. Poinsettias, holly and mistletoe all are toxic to both dogs and cats, and holiday decorations, like tinsel or small ornaments, can cause gastric distress if eaten. Younger dogs also will tear into packages left within reach, regardless of what’s inside, cautioned Knox.

Chip your pets. More people coming and going from your home over the holidays increases the risk your dog or cat will get out. Pets should be microchipped or wear an ID tag with your contact information, recommended Knox. “It’s important to have these backup systems in place,” he said.

Reinforce routines. With visitors, parties and holiday shopping, owners still should spend quality time with their pets so they don’t get lonely or anxious. “If your normal play time is 4 o’clock, the dog doesn’t understand” why things have changed, Davis said. Holiday schedules can be crazy, but our furry friends have feelings, too. Try to stick with your usual routine as much as possible and show your pets extra attention to help keep them calm through the holidays.