Pet Talk

Staying with family during the holidays already has challenges; adding pets to the mix makes it more so.

Being a good guest when we have pets in tow may take some extra effort, but it doesn’t have to be all-consuming. In fact, working just a bit harder than we might naturally be inclined to may just make our holiday experiences exponentially more rewarding.

When it comes to being a good guest, it’s all about making it easy on our hosts. Here are some simple ways to do that:

1. Always ask your host first. Don’t assume your pet is automatically welcome to holiday gatherings. Always ask your host if your pet can attend. Even if they’ve been welcomed before, adding a pet into the already-hectic mix of holiday gatherings might add extra stress on your host. Other guests’ needs must also be kept in mind. Consider allergies, small children, fears and other things that might make the other guests uncomfortable around animals.

2. Make the decision wisely. Be considerate to your pets as well as your hosts. If your pet doesn’t travel well, you should leave her in the care of someone who can keep her safe and comfortable. Research your local pet boarding and daycare facilities to find a right fit for your pet or even look into finding a pet sitter who will come straight to your home. If this seems onerously expensive or you really don’t want to part with her, you should probably consider whether you’re traveling with her for your sake or hers.

3. Pack for your pet too. Make sure to pack anything your pet may need to make her stay more comfortable and as easy on your host as possible. Besides the essentials, like food, leashes, and medications, consider bringing your own bowls, beds, poop bags or litter boxes. It’s also a good idea to bring your pet’s favorite toys that you know will occupy her.

4. Exercise common sense. Pet guests must be well-behaved and neat. That means no extreme barking or vocalizing, no urinating or defecating inappropriately, eliminating out-of-doors in designated areas only, managing aromas by whatever means necessary, refraining from displaying aggression, reigning in any destructive tendencies, and generally behaving like the adorable furball you know. Ask about any specific household rules.

5. Make alternate arrangements. What if things don’t go according to plan? Having a contingency plan is crucial. A nearby pet-friendly hotel, a boarding facility you trust, a nearby friend, a sympathetic relative - call ahead to be sure you can make last minute arrangements if the need arises.

6. Work on it. Maybe this isn’t the best time of year to take your pets out for a test spin. If you’ve never traveled with your pets before and you ever hope to, you should plan accordingly. Make plans for short trips this year to train them, test their limits, and determine whether this is a lifestyle choice that’s good for all involved.

Ideally, your beloved animals should add to the holiday merriment, not detract from it. Your pets should, at the very least, not be cause for extra stress on your familial bonds.