December 13, 2011
Posted in Common Pet Conditions, Pet Supplies, Pet Training

Many pet owners can't wait to spend the holiday season with their furry best friends. However, when the animal gets frightened or anxious by all the holiday hustle and bustle, it's not enjoyable for anyone. If you have a dog or cat that is skittish or shy, there are several ways to help it relax around the holidays so you can all enjoy them together.

Even the most outgoing retrievers may get stressed out by all the new decorations, hoardes of visitors and change in normal routine. You don't have to give up your holiday cheer in order to please your cat or dog. Simply make a few adjustments and preparations.

If you have a dog that tends to hide from commotion, teach it to enjoy a crate, if it doesn't already. Even grown dogs can be crate trained by associating the space with a positive thing like food. Set up a Super Dog Crate with Cozy Bed or Designer Metal Dog Crate in a quiet space and give your dog its nightly Greenies for Dogs chew or a bowl of Candidae Grain Free Pure Elements Dog Food and it will be choosing to use this space in no time. If your pet becomes really comfortable in the crate, you can put it in high-traffic area like the family room so you can enjoy uour pooch's company while giving it a secure feeling.

Although cats are not naturally inclined toward crates like dogs are, you can still confine them to a quiet, serene room using pet supplies like an Extra Wide Swing Pet Gate. Leave Kitty in the room with its favorite toys and treats and you can enjoy your holiday festivities knowing that the cat is safe and happy.

The news source also recommends using a diffuser for pets that releases a calming pheromone into the air. These pheromones are synthetic substances that mimic the calming smells naturally produced by animals. Comfort Zone for Cats has Feliway, which helps a cat feel more comfortable in stressful situations. Comfort Zone for Dogs is the canine version, featuring D.A.P., which stands for dog appeasing pheromone. The use of these pheromones can help pets adjust to a number of situations. There is also nothing wrong with a pet sedative if it is going to keep your animal companion free from fear. Your vet may recommend HomeoPet Anxiety or Composure Bite-Sized Chews.  

Related posts:

1. Training cats and dogs to get along
2. Helping your dog recover from surgery
3. Tips for easing anxiety in dogs
4. Travel safely with your pooch this holiday season
5. How to crate train your dog