If you’re planning to welcome a furry friend into your home for the holidays, you’re not alone.
The Humane Society for Southwest Washington sees pet adoptions spike in December by about 50 percent over its usual 300, shelter spokeswoman Denise Barr said.
“We believe that bringing a new family member home during the holiday season is a good time to complete families,” she said.
The holidays, when families are usually home for extended vacations, can be the perfect time to add a new family member, but they also can put extra stress on your already adjusting companions. Here are some tips from the Humane Society for Southwest Washington and the West Columbia Gorge Humane Society for introducing a new pet to your home during the holiday season.
Keep pets away from hazards
We all know chocolate is dangerous for your pets, but other holiday food and decorations hanging on from Christmas Day can hurt your animals, too.
“Holly and mistletoe can be deadly or cause obstruction or nasty digestive system problems,” said Sharon Asker, executive director at the West Columbia Gorge Humane Society.
Tinsel and ribbon, while not poisonous, can get caught in knots in your pet’s stomach, which could be deadly.
And if you’re planning a holiday party sometime in the next week, pay attention to what you’re leaving out for your guests. Some snacks, such as certain types of nuts, can be poisonous or get stuck in your pet’s throat.
“People have parties, and they leave snacks like nuts on the table, and candy dishes,” Asker said. “You might get a curious cat jumping on your table and knocking over a glass of wine.”
Keep an eye on pets at parties
With guests coming in and out of your home, there’s more opportunities for your new pet to make a break for it.
“Be vigilant about opening doors or gates leading outside,” Barr said.
Though it may be hard at first, the best thing you can do for a dog is crate-train it and keep it in the kennel when company is over, Asker said.
“It’s much safer for people not tripping over the dog when you’re having your holiday parties,” Asker said.
Give Fido time to settle in
“Stick around home base” as much as possible when you bring your new pet home, Barr said.
“Resist the urge to join a crowd, dog parks or any potentially overstimulating or overwhelming activities,” Barr said.
If you’re bringing a cat or kitten home, don’t give them free rein of the home immediately, she said. Limit space to a smaller room while they’re getting used to their litter box.
Don’t leave your dog in the yard until you’ve gotten into a routine and the dog is more comfortable in his new home, Barr said. And don’t forget to keep a collar with identification on your pets at all times, she said.
Take advantage of time off
The kids are home from school, and you might be home from work, giving you the advantage of plenty of time to get to know your new pet.
“Use your school vacation or work vacation time to give your new pet plenty of love and attention,” Barr said.
And don’t forget, she added, “take lots of pictures.”
