A Guide To Keeping Dogs Safe During the Holidays

As hard as it is to believe, the holidays are right around the corner. This season will look different than others in the past, so you must be creative when celebrating. Along with social distancing and creating the perfect gift list, you should also focus on keeping your pets safe during the holidays. These tips will make this a more accomplishable goal so that you can focus on what the season is really all about.

Limit the Treats

Listen, it’s hard to resist puppy eyes. Still, you must resist the urge to share your seasonal treats with your pet. Dogs can’t eat chocolate, so even though you want them to be happy, it’s best to avoid giving them chocolate-covered treats. Give your pet a toy they can play with instead—that way, they can still enjoy themselves without the risk of illness.

Keep Decoration Design in Mind

The holidays wouldn’t be the same without decorations. You can still hang tinsel around your stair railings if you want, but you should be careful about placement if you own a dog. The last thing you want is to come home to a Christmas disaster after a shopping trip. Consider putting decorations up high so that your pooch can’t reach them. Also remember that plants such as poinsettias and mistletoe can be poisonous to dogs. Keep these out of your pet’s reach to avoid accidents.

What About the Christmas Tree?

Another step in this guide to keeping dogs safe during the holidays is to consider tree placement. Dogs are notorious for sticking their noses where they don’t belong. Protect your presents and furniture by keeping your pet away from the tree when you aren’t around. Perhaps install a gate around the tree so that your pup can’t get to it. Another solution is to place the tree in a room where your pet isn’t allowed. Remember, you aren’t being harsh—just protecting your beloved tree and your pup.

Personal Space

In a previous blog post, we discussed the importance of providing personal space for your dog. Creating a “me zone” for your pet is even more crucial during the holidays because they may get anxious as guests come in and out. Create an area for them to go and relax when they get too excited.

Follow this guide to keeping dogs safe during the holidays so that you can take one less thing off your plate. Like humans, dogs deserve to enjoy the holidays. Fortunately, this task is easy as long as you prioritize your pup’s safety. Also, don’t forget to get your pup an amazing gift. Why not check out Gorilla Dog Beds’ selection of chew–proof dog crate pads this season? That way, they’ll have something indestructible to chew on when they get nervous.