Author: Evie Van Hove
The festive season is all about warmth, cosiness and togetherness. But for dogs and cats, this period can be unexpectedly stressful. Hustle and bustle, loud noises, decorations and changes in routine can affect your pet's well-being. By taking their needs and behaviour into account, you can make the festive season more enjoyable for your four-legged friend too.
Why holidays can cause stress
Research shows that changes in environment and routine are significant stress factors for pets. The combination of a large group of guests, loud noises and decorations increases the risk of anxiety, undesirable behaviour or physical complaints.
Festive decorations also pose a risk. Christmas tree needles, electrical cables and ribbons can cause injuries or even life-threatening obstructions if swallowed by animals. In addition, certain festive foods are toxic to dogs and cats, such as chocolate and nuts.
"By taking their needs and behaviour into account, you can make the festive season more enjoyable for your four-legged friend too."
What can you do for your pet?
1. Create calm and predictability
- Maintain the same daily schedule as much as possible. Animals are very attached to routine, which reinforces their sense of security.
- Provide a quiet place where your pet can retreat when things get too busy.
- Encourage mental well-being by offering puzzle toys or chew toys, which help reduce stress.
2. Make your home party-safe
- Make sure the Christmas tree is sturdy and that your pet cannot reach decorations or electrical wires.
- Avoid ribbons, glitter or small decorative elements that are easy to swallow.
- Choose safe decorations and be alert for poisonous plants or food. Keep chocolate, meat scraps and spicy dishes strictly out of reach of animals.
3. Guests and party visitors
- Introduce visitors to your pet in a calm manner and do not force interaction.
- Ask guests not to give snacks or table scraps.
- Ensure that doors and gates remain closed to prevent escape behaviour.
How Pettherapy.be supports you in this
As behavioural therapists for dogs and cats, we work in a scientifically sound, honest, transparent manner, fully tailored to your pet. During the festive season, we can offer the following services:
- An analysis of the home environment to limit stress factors.
- Positive, reward-based guidance on anxiety, stress or undesirable behaviour.
- Provide insight into correct handling, communication and training according to recent behavioural sciences.
Conclusion
With the right preparation and attention, you can ensure that your pet feels just as comfortable as you do during the festive season. Small adjustments make a big difference to their well-being. This way, your whole family can enjoy a peaceful and warm end-of-year period.
Evie Van Hove is PgD Clinical Animal Behaviour, certified puppy coach, dog trainer and behaviour coach. She has been business manager of Pettherapy.be since 2021.
