18/12/2024
❄️Keep Calm It's Christmas❄️
💙Christmas may seem like a time for cheer
💙But for our pets there may be an element of fear....
We wanted to raise awareness this Christmas to help pets and families have a safe and enjoyable festive period.
Although some pets enjoy being in the centre of the action, many will find parties and groups overwhelming so here are our Christmas Top Tips ☃️
❄️Children
Some pets get on fabulously with children, but many will not be used to the loud noises and excessive attention.
Children make up a large percentage of dog bite statistics. We need to be aware that many pets often feel they have no option to lash out after they have been telling us (via subtle body language) that they are feeling uncomfortable in a situation.
Therefore we need to teach children entering the house during the Christmas period to be animal savvy!
🌀Do not approach a sleeping animal.
🌀Ask permission before you pet an animal.
🌀Don't disturb a pet while eating.
🌀Don't take toys away from a pet.
🌀Don't jump on or ride dogs.
🌀If cats are in a safe hiding place then leave them be.
Canine Arthritis Management have produced a good book for children particularly focusing on our dogs with arthritis:
https://www.camonlineshop.com/why-dont-you-listen-book/
❄️Safe spaces
Safe places for our pets to escape the commotion are imperative to allow them to relax.
Provide cats with safe escape routes and calm, quiet rooms to hide in away from the commotion.
Provide dogs with a safe, comfy area they can retreat to if the party gets too much. This should be an area they are not allowed to be disturbed in and can be a room, crate or quiet corner.
❄️Fireworks
Follow our firework safety advise to keep pets safe and calm if fireworks are set off at Christmas.
❄️Vet visits
If your pet needs a prescription please give your Veterinary practice plenty of notice to dispense as there may be changes in Christmas medicine deliveries.
❄️Small furries
Indoor small furries like rabbits, Guinea pigs and hamsters will often find the noise and busyness extremely stressful. Keep them away from excessive handling by children and allow them a quiet place to stick to their routine.
❄️ Reptiles/exotics/birds
Reptiles also won't appreciate any over handling. Many species also run the risk of zoonotic bacteria (particularly salmonella) from their gastrointestinal tract if children or other guests are handling and nibbling finger food!
Some birds may enjoy the attention but others will find it overwhelming, and should not be handled in a party environment. They should not be around teflon pans cooking, certain sprays, cigarette smoke and room fragrances so may need to be kept away.
💙 Supporting this Christmas
💙 https://www.vetlife.org.uk/donate/
