Holiday Pet Care Tips

Dogs in holiday sweatersAs the holidays approach, you might find yourself overwhelmed with shopping, cooking, and traveling plans. With so much going on, it’s easy to overlook your furry friends and their needs. But as a responsible pet owner, it’s essential to keep your pets happy and healthy during the hectic holiday season. Here are some tips to help you make sure your pets are well-fed and taken care of while you’re away.

Hire a Pet Sitter or Ask for Help from a Friend or Family Member
One of the best ways to make sure your pets are well taken care of while you’re away is to hire a pet sitter or ask for help from a family member or friend. A professional pet sitter can check on your pets multiple times a day, feed them, give them water, and let them out for bathroom breaks. They can also provide companionship and playtime to keep your pets happy and engaged. If a pet sitter isn’t in your budget, ask a trusted friend or family member to do pet-sitting for you.

Stick to Their Regular Feeding Schedule
While you’re away, make sure to maintain your pet’s regular feeding schedule. Consistency is essential for keeping your pet happy and healthy. Feed them the same food they eat at home in the same quantity, and make sure they have access to plenty of fresh water. Also, make sure your pet sitter or helper knows about your pet’s feeding pattern.

Provide Your Pet with Plenty of Toys and Accessories
Toys and accessories can help keep your pets happy and entertained. Provide them with toys that they enjoy playing with, including chew toys, puzzle toys, and ball toys. You can also leave your pet with some relaxing music or a cozy blanket to snuggle on, making them feel comfortable and calm while you’re away. Make sure to check on them regularly, even if you are not there personally.

Make Sure Your Pet is Safe and Secure
Keeping your pets safe and secure is essential, especially when you’re not there to supervise them. Make sure your pet sitter or helper knows how to keep your pets safe and secure, including keeping them away from hazards like electrical cords, open flames, and toxic substances. Also, make sure that your pet’s space is secure as well and that they cannot leave their designated area.

Communicate with Your Pet Sitter or Helper
Communication is key to ensuring that your pet is happy and healthy while you’re away. Therefore, make sure you communicate clearly with your pet sitter or helper about your pet’s needs, routines, and health concerns. Leave emergency contact numbers, vet information, and clear instructions to ensure that your pets receive any necessary care.

The holidays can be a hectic time for us pet owners, but with these tips, you can be sure that your pets are well-fed and taken care of while you’re away. By hiring a pet sitter, sticking to your pet’s regular feeding schedule, providing them with plenty of toys and accessories, making sure they are safe and secure, and communicating with your pet sitter and helper, you can ensure that your pet has a happy and healthy holiday season.