So Help Me Dog

Christmas is close and the Christmas rush has started.

Going shopping for presents, organising what to wear, thinking about what food we will make, putting up decorations, but what about our dog?

What will they be doing on Christmas day?

Below are some ways we can help them feel less stressed

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Your & your dog are going to someone else house

1. Take them to that house before the day if you can, so you can make it a positive experience

2. Take them for a walk or sniffari well before you go

3. Find them a space where they are able to retreat to (a crate, a bedroom, a dog bed)

4. Bring comfort items from home (their bed from home, a soft toy, their favourite toy)

5. Give them something to do or something to chew (puzzle toy, kong, chew, licki mat)

6. Keep them on a leash or a tether close to you (always supervised)

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Christmas is at your house

1. Stick to routine as best you can

2. Take them for a walk or sniffari well before guests arrive

3. Set up a safe space for them to be able to retreat to

5. Give them something to do or something to chew (puzzle toy, kong, chew, licki mat)

6. Use Adpatil sprays or diffusors

7. Use baby gates or barriers to reduce access

8. Keep them on a leash or a tether close to you (always supervised)

9. Put up a sign or text people in advance explaining your dogs needs Eg. Please don't pat the dog, please don't feed the dog etc

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Extra bits

If you are leaving them home alone, make sure they can cope with the length of time you'll be away. Start practicing now.
Do not give them food scraps! Most of the Christmas food can make them really sick and unwell, and we don't want to be going to the emergency vet on Christmas day

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Now you can be well prepared to have a stress-free Christmas

Don't hesitate to reach out if you have any questions

For more training information and support visit www.sohelpmedog.net

What to do with your dog on Christmas day