GRANDVILLE, Mich. –– Your pets are like family to you. You truly love them and want the best for them. The holidays can be a stressful time with all the hustle and bustle, especially if it involves traveling and new places. To make the best of the situation for them, we've come up with some tips on keeping pets safe and happy during the holidays.
- Stay on Schedule: As much as possible, try to keep their feeding, exercising, and bathroom times consistent. They are habitual creatures as much as we are and expect these things when they normally get them, and can be stressed if they don't. If you're somewhere new, daily exercise that involves just the two of you can reduce anxiety for them (and probably you too).
- Be Prepared: We hate to think of a pet running away or getting injured or sick, but it's best to be prepared. Always keep proper ID tags on them at all times, even if the jingling is annoying. Keep a photo of them with you, which you probably already have thanks your love for your pet and smart phones. Also, have your vet email records to you to keep with you in case of injury or illness. Tip: have them send it to an email accessible through your phone, then star or favorite the email for easy access.
- Watch What They're Eating: With many hands exchanging food, and the desire for your beloved pet to enjoy what you're enjoying, they often eat things they shouldn't, leading to gastrointestinal problems and accidents. Things like chocolate, raisins, grapes, nuts, onions, and alcohol are toxic to dogs. We understand they're cute, but it's best to refrain from giving them non-pet food! If you're going away, make sure you bring a little extra food in case of an emergency.
- In the Car: If they're coming along for the ride, make sure they're secured properly in the car with a crate, carrier, or harness solution. Always bring a bowl and water with you and be prepared to stop to let them go to the bathroom (bringing bags to clean up their mess is also recommended). You can keep them comfy by providing them a blanket.
- At a Guest's Place: Keep them on their best behavior by brushing up on basic commands before leaving. Understand they can be excited or stressed by new smells, people, and other animals so talk to your guest beforehand to know how to deal. Bring a favorite, quiet toy and a quiet space (pet bed, or crate) for them to feel secure.
- Include Them: Acknowledge them, play with them, and include them in the group. It's no fun to be locked in a room when there's a party going on (unless that's their choice). Be patient with them, and remember they too pick up on human emotions like stress and excitement.
Hopefully these tips have given you the tools to keep your pets safe and happy during the holidays no matter what you'll be doing! Need an oil change, tire rotation, brake service, etc. to help keep you and your passengers safe on the road? We can help with that, too. Check out our Express Service Lane menu online for services and prices. We offer a comfortable customer lounge with a TV and free wifi, a bright showroom to browse, and brand new 2017 Honda CR-Vs to check out while you wait. Or you can use our shuttles to go to and from the mall for Christmas returns while your car is being worked on!
Visit Us Online: RiverTownHonda.com
Follow Us on Social Media: Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Google +, YouTube
No comments:
Post a Comment