Christmas Stresses for Pets

In the lead up to the festive period, we understand that managing the usual Christmas stresses can be a lot for owners, but have you considered the impact that the holidays can have on your pets? With your house filling up with new smells and presents, unfamiliar visitors, and loud celebrations, it’s understandable that your furry friends might feel overwhelmed at this time of year.

Christmas is all about spending time with your family and making happy memories, and we want to ensure that your cats, dogs, and horses are able to feel involved in the festive fun, rather than hiding away from the excitement. The good news is that by taking a few simple precautions, you can help minimise the anxiety and confusion that this busy time can bring to your companion.

In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the common holiday stresses and offer some helpful, practical ways to keep your pets feeling safe, happy, and calm over the Christmas period.

Dogs and Festive Fears

Dogs are known to be quite sensitive animals, which you’ll know all too well if you have one! The sudden changes in routine, environment, and noise levels can often trigger anxiety - learn more about the signs here.

The Fright of Loud Noises

The festive season is a time for celebrations, and too much mulled wine can create more noise than usual! Whether it’s loud music, party poppers, or even the distant sounds of fireworks in the build up to the New Year, these sounds can all cause your dog great distress. Find out more about dogs and fireworks here.

To overcome, or suppress this stress, there are a few simple steps that you can take to help soothe your dog. 

• Create a den: Make a safe, cosy space where your dog can retreat to when they feel overwhelmed. This could be an open crate covered with a blanket, or a corner of a quiet room.

• Drowning out sound: Close all windows and curtains to help dampen any noise outside. You can try turning on the television or radio to a soothing volume to mask the sudden sounds coming from another room, from neighbours, or even the outdoors.

• Early exercise: If you anticipate noise in the evening, make sure your dog gets their essential walk and plenty of play early in the day, to help burn off energy and encourage rest later on.

If your dog is particularly sensitive to loud noises, or if you’re uncertain of how comfortable they are in these different circumstances, this may increase their chances of escape. During this festive period, particularly the loudest times, make sure they’re wearing their collar equipped with a durable ID tag in case they attempt to bolt. If you’re looking for a hard-wearing tag, make sure to click here and order yours in time for Christmas. (Order before 18 Dec for pre-Christmas delivery)*

Managing the Extra Visitors

Christmas is a time for gift-giving, being merry, and spending time with your loved ones. However, a busy house of unfamiliar faces can quickly become very overwhelming for your dog. It's crucial to give your dog the space they need, particularly if they are not used to a crowded house, or if they’re visibly anxious - however, we know some dogs love all the extra attention!

• Establish boundaries: Kindly ask visitors not to crowd your dog or try to force interaction if your dog seems stressed. A simple warning can go a long way.

• Maintain routine: Although it’s hard, try to stick to your dog’s regular feeding and walking schedule as closely as possible. Consistency helps them feel safe while other things are changing.

• Give them an escape route: Ensure the safe space mentioned earlier remains easily accessible. If your dog retreats, let them stay there undisturbed.

Cats and Christmas

Cats are creatures of habit, and often find the slightest change to their home quite stressful. The presence of a Christmas tree, new decorations, and unfamiliar smells can all contribute to them feeling uneasy.

Environmental Changes

Even just the Christmas tree itself can be a source of stress for cats! Shiny baubles, twinkling lights, and dangling wires all can become potential hazards to a curious cat finding itself entangled in the tree.

• Secure the tree: Make sure your tree is anchored securely so it can't be pulled over if your cat decides to climb it, which is more likely than you might think!

• Safe placement: Try to put delicate or tempting decorations higher up, out of paw's reach. You could even consider placing a boundary around the tree to discourage them from attempting to scale the lit up branches!

• Tinsel and strings: Tinsel, ribbons, and wires look great around your home, but please be aware that they can be very dangerous if ingested. Keep these decorations secured or out of your cat’s reach completely.

To help ease your cat's mind about these new additions, ensure they still have access to their favourite sleeping spots and climbing areas, such as a sturdy climbing tree. This provides a known, safe haven where they can relax and observe the new changes to their environment.

Staying Safe Outdoors

Whether your curious cat loves exploring the outdoors, or you’re cautious that your indoor cat might escape during all the Christmas commotion, regardless, you should always take precaution. 

In the festive period, you should always ensure that your cat is wearing their ID tag, regardless of their usual nature. This ensures that no matter how far they wander, or if they may escape, they are always retrievable if somebody finds them. Our tags are crafted with exceptional longevity so your information remains clear for years of adventuring. If you’re looking to explore your options, click here. (Order before 18 Dec for pre-Christmas delivery)*

Horses in the Festive Season

Horses are far less susceptible to loud noises and the stress of Christmas, partially due to their nature, but also to do with them being kept out of the way of the festivities of Christmas. While this removes one worry, you still need to prioritise your horse’s wellbeing during the holiday season, due to potential routine changes and weather conditions.

Routine Alterations in the Colder Weather

The festive season comes with much harsher conditions, making your horse's comfort a priority. Their routines should remain consistent in timing, but it may look a little different in the colder months. 

• Rugging: Ensure you have the right kind of rug to keep your horse warm and dry. If you're unsure when and what to use, please click here to read our detailed guide on when to rug your horse.

• Visibility: With less daylight, you might be out riding or walking in low light. For both your safety, and your horse’s safety, ensure you have appropriate high-visibility gear.

How to Include Your Horse This Christmas

If you’re looking to spoil your horse with some new equipment this Christmas, whether that’s a new saddle, or headcollar, we’ve got the perfect finishing touch for you. You can treat them to a bespoke nameplate, a wonderful way to enhance their elegance and style, and a sure way to improve the look of their equipment! Click here to get yours. (Order before 18 Dec for pre-Christmas delivery)*

Summary

We know that pets are part of the family, and we hope these simple steps help you and your companions enjoy a wonderful, stress-free Christmas. By keeping their routine consistent, providing safe spaces, and ensuring they are always wearing a durable, legible ID tag, you can focus on making happy memories together.

If you're looking for a durable gift that lasts far beyond Christmas, explore our range of high-quality, deeply engraved pet tags and horse nameplates. 

That being said, we wish you and your furry friends a very Merry Christmas, and a Happy New Year! 💝