Following the Trends: Spending the Holidays With Your Pet

If you’re one of those jolly types that starts humming Christmas carols long before December, you’ve probably already envisioned how you want to spend the holidays with your pet. There’s so much more to do together than ever before, thanks in large part to the growing acceptance of pets in public places. This means loads of choices regarding how best to spend your time together this holiday season. If you need a little help narrowing down the list, we’ve got some ideas on how to joyfully (and safely) spend the holidays with your pet.

The Most Wonderful Time of the Year

We’ve all had to figure out ways to make the most out of our time at home. For people that love to chill with their pets, this wasn’t a stretch. In many ways, the pandemic gave pet owners a special opportunity to cultivate or build upon lasting bonds with their newly adopted and/or long-time pets. If there is a bright side, it’s that the animals we chose to share our homes with are the recipients of abundant attention and affection.

This holiday season, you might decide to continue the trend and simply stay home with your pet. Let them be the center of attention and spoil them with their favorite toys, treats, and cuddly items. Enjoy holiday movie viewing together while snuggling on the couch.

Fa-La-La-La

You could spice up the routine with special holiday-themed outings. There are lots of Santa Paws photo opportunities, pet-friendly art walks, and outdoor restaurants that cater to pets and their people.

If your pet is up to it, dress them up in a festive costume that guarantees extra attention from strangers. Don’t forget to take lots of pictures. Choose the best one and display it in a prominent place for guests to fawn over.

To Grandmother’s House We Go

The holidays are meant to be enjoyed with the people you love. Some pets are intrepid travelers, others need some serious convincing that everything’s going to be okay. Wherever your pet falls on this scale, meet them there. A road trip can definitely be fun, but be sure to include lots of extra bathroom breaks. Exercise your pet before getting into the car and keep their meals small and regular. This also goes for entertaining guests in your home.

I’ll Be Home for Christmas

Planning on being overnight guests at someone else’s home? If your pet is well trained, this is a memorable way to spend the holidays with your pet. However, a new place can create some roadblocks to their holiday health and safety. Be sure that they cannot run away or escape outdoor enclosures; in fact, try to keep them leashed whenever you’re outside together. Also, request that certain foods, plants, or household items be stored appropriately to reduce the risk of poisoning or obstruction. Always have eyes on your pet.

Happy and Healthy

No matter how you decide to spend the holidays with your pet, give them the gift that keeps on giving. Choose foods and treats that support their overall health and wellness. If you need help with adding certain dietary supplements or nutrients to their diets, please let us know. The healthier your pet is today, the longer they’ll be around to help you celebrate future holidays.

From all of us at Leon Valley Veterinary Hospital, we wish you and your pet a happy, bright, and safe holiday season.