Are you having visitors over the holiday season? It’s always great to reconnect with friends and family members! However, you may want to take a few simple precautions to ensure that all goes smoothly between your guests and your pet. In this article from Westside Animal Hospital, a Savannah, GA vet discusses helping guests and pets get along.

Set Ground Rules

We recommend setting a few simple ground rules to prevent mishaps. Ask your guests not to feed or discipline your pet, and to keep personal items, such as medicine, out of paws’ reach. This is especially important if your visitors don’t have furry friends of their own. People with pets typically understand what is and isn’t safe for our animal companions, but those who don’t have furbabies may not be aware of potential dangers.

Guest Room

When you set up your guest room, opt for flooring instead of carpet in that room, if possible, and use hypoallergenic bedding. Investing in a good air purifier is also a good idea. Additionally, we recommend advising your guests to keep their door closed. Otherwise, there’s a good chance that you’ll find Fido or Fluffy asleep on their bed! If your visitors have allergies, set out some tissues and OTC allergy meds. Last but not least, before your guests arrive, brush or bathe your pet, and thoroughly dust and vacuum your home.

Petiquette

We know, Fido can absolutely adorable when he’s begging. However, at the end of the day, begging is bad doggy manners! Jumping on people is also a no-no. If your furry buddy has these bad habits, keep him in a separate room during meals, and/or when people are coming and going.

Playtime

Indulge your animal companion with a vigorous play session every day. If you have a dog, take Fido for a long walk each morning. This will help your furry buddy burn off any excess energy, leaving you with a calmer, better behaved pet.

Precautions

Make sure your pet is current on their vaccinations and parasite control. Also, keep an eye on your little (or not so little) buddy when you have visitors. You don’t want Fluffy slipping out an open door, or Fido getting his tail caught under a recliner. Happy Holidays! Please contact us, your local Savannah, GA vet clinic, with any questions about your pet’s health, behavior, or care. We’re here to help!