Thanksgiving
Are you planning on having a Thanksgiving celebration in your home this year –or maybe you’re bringing your dog with you to another house to celebrate there? Either way, here are some tips to help your dog(s) during the celebration:
Thanksgiving Management Tips
Examples if you are able to have them out and about include:
Having a dedicated “dog watcher” at all times–this can be switched around
Don’t forget to give them access to water and the outdoors to go to the bathroom
Put a leash on your dog even in the house
Keep all food and drink in places inaccessible to your dog (or put lids on)
Feed your dog before the celebration begins
Have a double-door system where your dog cannot get outside through one door only, but would have to go through two (less likely)
This can be achieved by putting a play/xpen around the door, using a gate, or having people come through a different door if needed
Examples if you know it would be best to have them away include:
Have a crate or a different room set up for your dog to be away from the commotion
Play calming music (think spa music) to help calm and to drown out other noises
Keep the lights low, shades closed, etc.
Give them something likable such as a Kong stuffed with pureed pumpkin and then frozen to give them more time licking it
If your dog is at all reactive to people (likely including children) then do NOT put them in a situation where they are exposed to their triggers in this highly stimulating environment, as this should be worked on separately and with help from a professional dog behaviorist/trainer.
Also, if they have a tendency to jump on guests then that would also warrant them being in a separate place–there are too many unsafe variables that can be present such as: elderly people and children (or anyone that is unstable on their feet), jumping on people with food or drinks in hand- for obvious reasons.
How to be Proactive and Prepare ahead of time:
Prepare frozen Kongs or similar items
Purchase extra pureed pumpkin to stuff your Kong-like items
Prepare a room the dog(s) can go in to have a break and be safe
Work on your dog’s reaction to knocking or the doorbell ringing so it is not triggering for them all day (if you have time)
Plan your double-door system
Make sure everyone in the household is on the same page with the plan
You’ll want to think through as many potential scenarios as you can and have a plan B in case something goes wrong. Trust me, you’ll thank me later!
GOLDEN HOLIDAY RULE: When in doubt- MANAGE
Have a safe and happy holiday all!!
~email Kera: ccps.semn@gmail.com with any questions or to schedule a consultation
