Issue link: http://maconmagazine.uberflip.com/i/1437729
Excellence in Education, Since 1903 St. Peter Claver Catholic School 133 Ward Street, Macon 478.743.3985 spccatholicschool.org AC PUP KEEP PETS SAFE THROUGH THE HOLIDAYS THE HOLIDAY SEASON IS SUCH A JOYOUS TIME. It's also my favorite time of year. There's typically so much excitement this time of year anyway, but especially this year. I'm hoping more families and visitors will be able to spend the holidays together and we can enjoy each other's company with great food and fabulous gifts. It's also time to remember how to keep your furry family members safe through the holidays. One important thing to realize is that due to the pandemic, your fur baby probably has not had the opportunity to socialize with anyone other than his immediate family for almost two years. So, even if your pet was outgoing and friendly to folks visiting your home pre-COVID, having different people coming into your home may feel intrusive or even frightening. Also, your pet is now two years older and may be set in his ways and less patient with disruptions surrounding his own space. It's important to be understanding of your pet's behavior, because it might be very different that what you're accustom to. After all, aren't we're all a little different because of COVID-19? We all need to offer one another, especially our fur family, grace and space. To anticipate the increased anxiety your pet may feel during an active holiday season, it may be a good idea to devote an area of the house to be a quiet space away from visitors for your dog or cat to retreat to. Include a crate, comfy bed, toys, food and water. Make it someplace he knows he can go to get away from intense stimulation, stress and noise. It's also wise to have a conversation with your guests before festivities are in full swing to ask for their consideration of your fur baby and understanding of possible behavior changes. I'm sure they'll appreciate knowing your pet needs extra patience and possibly space away from the center of activities. Realize your pet will be seeking his normal routine as much as possible during a holiday season where probably very little is routine. Keep his meal times at the same time with the same food and certainly no table scraps. Exercise him at the same time every day and reassure him he's safe in his quiet area. Finally, to prevent an anxious pet from attempting to escape the overstimulation of a loud, active house, be cautious that your pet does not bolt out an open exterior door. When you do take him outside, be sure he's in a fenced yard or on a leash. Make sure he has a current, legible identification tag on his collar and he's microchipped so that your family, pet and visitors can all have a peaceful and happy holiday season. — PATTI JONES 24 maconmagazine.com