Celebrate Shelter Pets Day is December 5th. Are you about to celebrate your first holiday season with a shelter dog you adopted? That’s great! Just keep in mind that shelter dogs may be easily frightened, and can get overwhelmed by a lot of change and commotion. Here, an Aurora, CO vet discusses spending the holidays with a rescued pooch.
Offer A Safe Space
As a rule of thumb, Fido needs three days to become familiar with a new place, three weeks to feel comfortable, and three months to really feel at home. He’ll also feel more secure on a set schedule. That progress can be slowed–or even derailed–by a lot of sudden changes, such as decorations, schedule disruption, travel, and guests. Try to keep your furry buddy on a steady routine as much as possible.
Get A Sturdy Leash
We always recommend that people who are adopting shelter dogs get sturdy leashes, ones that won’t snap or break if their pups startle and try to bolt. This is definitely something to keep in mind as New Year’s Eve approaches, as many people start shooting off fireworks before the holiday.
Take Time To Play
Did you know that exercise is extremely beneficial to pups that feel anxious or scared? Make sure to walk and play with Fido every day. That will help him burn off any excess energy he feels, so he’ll be calmer after.
Give Fido The (Second) Best Day Ever
Given the option, it’s probably safe to say that Fido would name his Gotcha Day as his best day ever. However, you can make his first holiday with you a close second. Fill your canine buddy’s stocking with lots of toys and treats. Don’t forget to take lots of pictures of this special day!
Use Caution With Guests
Shelter pets can get frightened easily, especially if they see a person that resembles somebody that was mean to them. If you’re having a big event, put your furry friend in a quiet back room with bedding, food, toys, and treats. Play it by ear from there: if Fido seems calm and curious, let him interact. If he seems scared, just let him sleep through the festivities.
All of us here at Aspen Commons Animal Hospital, your local Aurora, CO vet clinic, want to wish you a wonderful holiday season. Please feel free to contact us anytime!
