Christmas parties, Hanukkah parties, New Year’s parties…’tis the time of the year!  Often we include our dogs at these events.  This weekend we are expecting 19 people and 6 dogs for my Mom’s 85th birthday party – Happy Birthday MOM!  A lot of dogs in one house…We should always be mindful of a few things:

• a lot of people – especially young children running around that your dog may not be used to – can cause a lot of stress in your dog
• the party itself can be very stressful to a dog
• the delicious smell of food has been known to cause dogs to get underfoot, a danger to everyone 
• people love to give dogs goodies

If dogs are visiting make sure they have met (and get along) before the party, if possible.  Always watch the dogs – a fight can start in an instant and you don’t want to miss any signs that a dog is uncomfortable with his guest(s).  Before the party starts give your dog a little exercise so he is somewhat relaxed but NOT exhausted.  Some dogs have a shorter fuse when they are very tired.

Make sure you have some ground rules set in place for children AND adults!  Only allow a couple of people to approach your dog at a time, and they must do it CALMLY!  Dogs should not be rushed by strangers or friends.  

Keep dogs away from the cooking areas to avoid accidental spills and burns as well as getting underfoot.  We want to keep everyone safe!

YOU decide what food your dog can and cannot have and where they can have it.  Some dogs can show a little bit of possession and a stressful situation could cause your dog to act differently that usual.  Plus, many dogs wind up in the pet ER after parties because too many treats were given.  Not everyone knows about the foods dogs should never have or if your dog has an allergy. It’s not a bad idea to have dog treats available and use them as the ONLY treat he can have.  Make sure everyone knows, and make sure his isn’t overfed!

Absolutely have a place where your dog can go to get away from all of the action if necessary.  A crate or bedroom usually works nicely.  Your dog should be removed at the first sign of stress, and it should be made clear that no one is to bother him when he is in that special place.  You don’t ever want to look back and say “if only I had…” after a problem has occurred.  

Be smart about this.  You know your dog and his limitations.  A busy party could have him on edge.  It’s always better to be safe than sorry.  Some things you just can’t take back!

Keep your party animal safe!

Hugs,

Stacie & Ronan