Keeping your pets calm at Christmas

Christmas is a time of joy, celebration, and family gatherings, but it can also be a season of stress for your pets. Between the commotion of guests, loud music, and unfamiliar decorations. Your furry friends might struggle to feel relaxed. Dogs, in particular, can become anxious with the disruption of their routine and the increased activity in the house. Thankfully, there are ways to manage this stress and ensure your pets remain calm and comfortable throughout the festivities. For pet owners in Sheffield, utilising dog daycare services can be a game-changer. Giving your pets a safe, peaceful space away from the holiday hustle. 

Here are some key strategies for keeping your pets calm during Christmas.

Stick to a Routine

Pets thrive on routine. During Christmas, it’s easy for schedules to change as you become busy with shopping, cooking, and entertaining guests. However, your pet will benefit from consistency. Try to maintain their regular feeding, walking, and playtime schedules as closely as possible. Dogs, especially, rely on routine to feel secure. Even small disruptions can cause anxiety. Leading to unwanted behaviours like barking, pacing, or destructive chewing.

If you’re struggling to balance holiday preparations with your dog’s routine, dog daycare in Sheffield can provide an excellent solution. Daycare facilities ensure your dog gets exercise, socialisation, and attention while you focus on your holiday to-do list. This way, your dog sticks to their routine, and you get peace of mind knowing they’re in a safe environment.

Create a Safe Space

When things get overwhelming, pets need a place to retreat where they feel secure. Designate a quiet area in your home where your pet can relax, away from the noise and activity. Make this space comfortable with their favourite bed, toys, and perhaps some calming scents like lavender or chamomile.

For dogs, crate training can be particularly helpful. A crate acts as a den-like environment where your dog can escape when they feel anxious. If your dog isn’t crate-trained, a spare room or a cosy corner can serve the same purpose. Be sure to inform any guests not to disturb your pet while they’re in their safe space.

Again, if you’re hosting a large gathering or your home is too busy, dog daycare is a fantastic option to ensure your pet gets some peace. Many dog daycare centres in Sheffield are designed with calming spaces. Allowing your dog to relax in a stress-free environment.

Manage Holiday Visitors

If you’re expecting visitors, it’s important to prepare your pet in advance. While some pets enjoy socialising, others may find it overwhelming. If your dog tends to be anxious around new people, introduce your guests slowly and in a controlled manner. You might also consider keeping your dog in a separate room or their safe space during busy times.

For dogs that enjoy social interaction but still find large crowds stressful, dog daycare can again be a helpful option. Jaycliffe Kennels and Cattery often offers flexible hours, allowing you to drop off your dog for a few hours while you entertain guests. This helps prevent overstimulation and gives your pet a break from the action.

Provide Mental and Physical Stimulation

A tired dog is a happy dog. One of the best ways to keep your dog calm during Christmas is to make sure they’re getting enough physical and mental exercise. Long walks, playtime, and engaging toys will help burn off any excess energy that might otherwise be channelled into anxious behaviours. Puzzle toys, treat-dispensing toys, and interactive games can keep your dog entertained and mentally stimulated.

If you’re short on time due to holiday commitments, dog daycare can help ensure your dog stays active. Jaycliffe Pets in Sheffield offer a range of activities designed to keep dogs both physically and mentally engaged. With supervised playtime, your dog can expend their energy in a healthy way. Returning home relaxed and ready for a quiet evening.

Be Cautious with Decorations and Food

Christmas decorations, while beautiful, can be hazardous to pets. Shiny ornaments, tinsel, and electrical cords can all tempt curious dogs, potentially leading to injuries. Keep these items out of reach and ensure your tree is secure. Especially if your dog is known for being particularly inquisitive.

Holiday foods are another area of concern. Rich, fatty foods, chocolate, and alcohol are common during Christmas but can be toxic to dogs. Be sure to keep these items well out of your pet’s reach and inform guests not to feed your dog any table scraps. If you want to include your dog in the holiday feast, consider making dog-safe treats or purchasing some from a local pet store.

Consider Professional Help

If your pet experiences extreme anxiety during the holidays, you may want to consult with a professional. Dog behaviourists or trainers can offer advice on how to manage your pet’s stress. For Sheffield residents, many dog daycare centres also offer training services, providing behavioural support alongside their daycare offerings. This can be especially helpful if your dog’s anxiety becomes difficult to manage on your own.

Christmas should be a time of joy and relaxation for the whole family, including your pets. By sticking to routines, creating a safe space, and providing plenty of exercise and stimulation, you can help your dog stay calm and content throughout the festive season. And for those particularly busy or stressful days, dog daycare at Jaycliffe Kennels and Cattery offers a convenient way to ensure your dog is well cared for in a calm, supervised environment. With a little preparation and the right support, both you and your pet can enjoy a peaceful Christmas.

Contact us

If you’re still not sure on ‘Keeping your pets calm at Christmas’, or you’re wanting to book in for dog daycare in Sheffield, get in touch with us today. Our friendly team are on hand to discuss your pet boarding requirements with you. Call us on 01709 645 046 or send us a message via the form on our website.