How to keep pets safe and happy during the festive season

As the Christmas countdown begins, the experts at Petinsurance.ie are encouraging pet owners to take extra steps to ensure their furry friends stay safe and happy. With the holiday season being one of the busiest—and potentially most stressful—times of the year, a little preparation can go a long way in keeping pets calm and comfortable.

Be aware of the noise levels

With friends and family delivering seasons' greetings, and noisy toys being unwrapped, things can get hectic around the home. Even if your pet loves attention it’s important to ensure they have a safe and quiet space, should they need a break. Give cats plenty of hiding spots; like cardboard boxes with a blanket in quiet areas of your home. If your dog likes to use a crate, keep the door open so they can hide where they feel safe.

Be treat aware

While it might be acceptable for us to have advent calendar chocolate for breakfast in December, it’s important to remember that chocolate is highly toxic for dogs and can cause severe health issues. Make sure any tempting treats are out of their reach. It’s also important that your pet continues its usual mealtime routine, and doesn’t fill up on scraps from the table.

A recent survey found that 40% of people find it difficult not to share food when their dog begs for it - but its always best to resist. And of course, if you’re leaving a mince pie or two out for Santa, make sure they’re somewhere only he can reach, because dried fruit can be very dangerous for dogs!

Don’t forget your pet

If your festive visits will last longer than your usual outings, consider whether you can bring your pet with you or arrange for someone to check in on them. For those planning to travel during the holidays with their furry friends, Petinsurance.ie offers a travel add-on that ensures your pets are protected from unexpected medical needs while travelling within EU.

Keep up the good habits

It’s worth making the effort to give them the physical and mental stimulation they’re used to, in order to avoid the potential for destructive behaviour, so try to fit the daily walk into your festive schedule.

Taking a winter trip?

If you’re planning to be away from your pet over Christmas, now is the time to check what vaccinations or parasite treatments they need for their kennel or cattery, or to be around other pets at a relative’s home. You don’t want to let a kennel cough vaccine get between you and a winter break.

Be prepared

Accidents can happen, and things can go wrong at Christmas. It’s a good idea to have all the relevant contact numbers for your vet and insurance company - including out of hours options - to hand. If you have an insurance policy, keep your number and policy details somewhere safe so that you’re prepared.