Pets

Pets and Holidays

Just for a minute, think about the holidays from a pet's point of view.

You're curious about all these shiny things, but you're not allowed to sniff them or chew them. There's a tree in the house, but you can't climb it. People you don't know are putting plates of turkey and candy and glasses with sweet stuff right there on the coffee table. If you're a dog, all those people are kind of fun, but if you're a cat, you're in hiding. If you're a ferret, you're hoping everyone watches where they step with those clunky platform shoes. If you're a bird, you're trying to find a way to get that silvery nesting material on the tree back to your cage.

For two weeks, your humans are home during the day, gone in the evening, just the opposite of what you're used to. You never get your walks or your meals at the right time. And worst of all, someone has tied a bow around your neck and given you away to a stranger.

Yup, the holidays are hard on pets. Here's some advice to make things a little easier for your favorite non-humans this holiday season:

Pet-Proof Your Holidays
Decorations, rich foods, all the joys of the season can mean misery for your pets. Here's what to watch for.

Surprising Someone with a Puppy?
Think twice - returning that sweater your sister hated won't hurt anyone, but a pet that doesn't fit your sister's life will suffer.

Gifts for Pets
Just because a toy looks like fun to you doesn't mean it will be safe or appealing to your pet.

New Year's Resolutions for Pets
New Year's resolutions to keep your pets happy and healthy.