The Busy Holiday Season: Making Time for Your Pets

The holidays are full of sparkle, laughter, travel, and to-do lists a mile long. As joyful as this season can be, it often means busier schedules and less time for everyday routines. In the middle of the holiday rush, it’s easy to overlook one very important family member: your pet.

While you’re shopping for gifts, decorating the tree, or hosting relatives, your dog, cat, or exotic companion may be left feeling a little lonely. Pets thrive on routine and companionship. When life speeds up, they notice. The good news is that even small, intentional moments can help your pet feel included, secure, and loved during this busy season.

Let’s explore simple and meaningful ways to stay connected with your pet while still enjoying the holidays.

Holiday Chaos Disrupts Pet Routines More Than You Think

Pets are creatures of habit. They notice when meals are late, when their walk is rushed, or when their favorite lap is missing from the couch. The holidays can shift normal routines in ways that make pets feel uncertain or even anxious.

Here are a few common changes pets experience during the holiday season:

• Altered schedules: Changes in feeding times, shortened walks, or skipped play sessions can cause confusion or restlessness.
• More visitors: A house full of unfamiliar faces and sounds may be overwhelming, especially for shy or anxious pets.
• New decorations and smells: Holiday décor and scented candles are fun for us but can be overstimulating for pets who rely on consistent surroundings.

Even exotic pets like rabbits, ferrets, birds, and reptiles can be sensitive to household changes, noise, and fluctuating temperatures. The more you can anticipate how the holidays might impact your pet, the better you can support them through it.

Simple Moments that Strengthen the Bond

Just like people, pets don’t need grand gestures to feel valued. They benefit most from consistency, calm attention, and quality time with the people they trust.

Try carving out small moments that fit into your daily routine:

• Morning walks or playtime: A few extra minutes of undivided attention before the day begins can go a long way.
• Shared holiday traditions: Take your dog on a walk to see neighborhood lights. Let your cat “help” you wrap gifts by playing with paper, or letting them sit in various empty boxes. Include your pet in your family photos.
• Engaged play sessions: Even five minutes of focused play with a favorite toy can help your pet burn energy and feel connected.

The key is consistency. Pets don’t measure time the way we do. They notice your presence, your tone, and your attention.

Keep Them Busy Too: Enrichment for a Happy Holiday

While you’re prepping meals or wrapping gifts, your pet may be looking for something to do. Providing safe enrichment can help prevent boredom and give your pet a positive way to pass the time.

Here are a few holiday-approved enrichment ideas:

• Interactive toys: Puzzle feeders and treat-dispensing toys keep dogs and cats entertained and mentally stimulated.
• Foraging activities: Hide treats or kibble in boxes, or leave crinkled paper out around the house for your pet to find.

• Soothing items: Cozy pet beds, calming music, and soft blankets can help create a peaceful holiday space.

If your pet tends to get anxious around visitors or during travel, calming products can help reduce their stress. Fortunately there are many enrichment toys and calming aids such as pheromone sprays, chews, or supplements. Talk with our veterinary team about what may be  safe and effective for your individual pet.

Holiday Hazards: Keep Safety in Mind

Between festive foods, decorations, and increased activity, there are a few seasonal risks pet owners should keep on their radar.

Avoid these common holiday dangers:

• Toxic foods: Chocolate, onions, grapes, alcohol, and sugar-free sweeteners can all be dangerous to pets. Remind guests not to feed table scraps.
• Decorations: Tinsel, ribbon, string lights, and ornaments can be choking hazards or cause intestinal blockages if ingested.
• Scented items: Candles, potpourri, and essential oils can irritate your pet’s sensitive respiratory system, especially for birds or small mammals.

It’s also helpful to keep your pet’s routine as normal as possible. Stick to usual feeding times, walks, and sleep schedules. Don’t skip regular medications, parasite preventatives, or any scheduled care. If you need to stock up on essentials, check with us for home delivery options to save time and reduce stress.

Don’t Forget Exotic Pets Need Attention Too

Small mammals, reptiles, amphibians, and birds may not show emotion the same way as cats or dogs, but they still benefit from regular interaction and care. During the holidays:

• Keep their habitat clean and quiet
• Avoid placing their enclosure near loud music or busy areas
• Provide enrichment like chew toys, climbing structures, or safe foraging materials

If you’ll be traveling, make sure your pet-sitter is familiar with their species and daily needs. Write down feeding instructions and emergency contact information, including how to reach our veterinary team in case of an emergency.

Give the Gift That Matters Most

Your pet doesn’t need a perfect holiday, just a little time with you. Even brief moments like a quiet cuddle or a quick walk can mean everything.

Good health is a gift too. If your pet is due for a check-up or showing changes in behavior or appetite, our veterinary team is here to help. 

Wishing You and Your Pets a Happy, Connected Holiday Season

The holidays are a time to celebrate love, family, and connection, and your pet is a cherished part of that. With just a little planning, a few minutes of daily attention, and some thoughtful enrichment, you can help your pet feel safe, secure, and loved this season.

From our veterinary team to your family, we wish you joy, peace, and plenty of tail wags and purrs this holiday season.

Photo Credit: Jametlene Reskp on Unsplash