So where do pets fall into the picture when it comes to the holidays? Will Americans be taking Fido along with them on their travels? And for those playing host this year, are there any concerns about the family dog’s social skills around guests?

The Special Reports Team at CertaPet.com surveyed 1,000 U.S. dog owners to learn more about their Thanksgiving/Christmas travel and hosting plans as it pertains to their pets, and how they deal with any holiday hiccups that may arise. 

Holiday Travel Plans

Thanksgiving and Christmas tend to be the busiest travel times of the year, and recent reports suggest the 2023 holiday season in particular will be the busiest travel season ever. 

But it’s not just people hitting the roads for the holidays. 

In our survey of 1,000 U.S. dog owners, among those planning to travel for the holidays, a staggering 79% plan to bring their dog along with them.  

When asked why, 83% responded that they view their dog as a part of the family and therefore wish to include them. 

Other common reasons for bringing their canine companion along included concerns about the quality of care the dog would receive at a boarding facility or with a sitter (33%), the dog having separation anxiety and the owner not wishing to leave them on their own (29%), and the dog being a service animal or emotional support animal whose presence is needed at all times (21%). 

Men are more likely than women to bring their dog along on their holiday travels (55% vs. 45%), while those aged 35-44 had the highest percentage of Americans planning to embark on their holiday getaways with their dog right beside them (32%). Those aged 25-34 followed closely behind (31%). 

As for those planning to leave their pup behind this holiday season, it doesn’t seem to be without difficulty. 

Among these respondents, 59% admit they worry about whether or not their dog will feel anxious while they’re gone, while another 49% express concerns about their dog missing them. 

Other worries include whether their dog will be fed enough (28%), whether their dog will receive enough outdoor/walking time (26%), and whether their dog’s caretaker will have all the supplies they need to provide their animal companion with adequate care (24%). 

For those who may need to leave their dog with a sitter or at a boarding facility for the holidays, experts suggest the following tips to help make the right selection:

• Research and Recommendations: Start by researching local facilities or sitters. Ask for recommendations from friends, family, or your vet. Online reviews can also provide valuable insights.
• Visit in Person: If you’re considering a boarding facility, visit in person to check the cleanliness, safety, and overall environment. Look for spacious, clean kennels, secure fencing, and adequate play areas.
• Meet the Caretakers: Whether choosing a facility or an individual sitter, meet the caretakers. Observe how they interact with your dog and other animals. A good caretaker should be attentive, knowledgeable about dog behavior, and show genuine affection for animals.
• Check Credentials: Verify if the facility or sitter has the necessary licenses and certifications. Ask about their experience with dogs, especially if your dog has special needs or behavioral issues.
• Ask About Routine and Services: Inquire about the daily routine, including walk schedules, playtime, feeding, and sleeping arrangements. Ensure they can accommodate your dog’s specific needs, like medication or a special diet.
• Emergency Protocols: Ask about their procedures in case of an emergency. Ensure they have a plan for veterinary care if needed and that they can be easily contacted.
• Trial Run: If possible, do a trial run by leaving your dog for a short stay or having the sitter care for them for a day. This can help you gauge how well your dog adjusts and how the caretaker manages your pet. Then, pay attention to your dog’s behavior before and after the stay. Signs of stress or discomfort might indicate that the facility or sitter isn’t a good fit. Trust your instincts. If something feels off about a facility or sitter, it’s better to keep looking. Your dog’s well-being should be the top priority.
• Clear Communication: Once you identify the right boarding facility/sitter for your dog, ensure clear communication about your expectations and your dog’s needs. Provide detailed instructions regarding feeding, medication, or any behavioral quirks your dog might have.

Holiday Hosting Plans

Not everyone’s embracing the hustle and bustle of travel this holiday season. 

Some people will naturally stay home and play host for their loved ones. 

Unfortunately, while they may avoid the stress of travel, it seems there are other challenges to face when it comes to holiday guests and their dog. 

Among the 1,000 U.S. dog owners surveyed, 38% say their dog exhibits hyperactivity when there are guests in the home (including jumping on guests, running around the house, and/or urine marking), while 35% say their dog barks or howls excessively when guests ring the doorbell. 

Additionally, 1 in 7 dog owners say their dog exhibits anxiety (withdrawal, fearful behavior, etc.) during social gatherings in the home. 

When it comes to correcting these behaviors and alleviating their dog’s anxiety, the majority of dog owners (46%) turn to a good ol’ fashioned chew toy/bone to keep their dog occupied. Others keep their dog in another room when there are guests in the house (37%), use calming treats (37%), or exercise their dog before a social gathering to get excess energy out before an event (33%). 

If you’re planning on hosting a gathering this holiday season, experts provide the following tips to ensure your dog feels comfortable and safe at home:

• Provide a Safe Space: Designate a comfortable and quiet area for your dog away from the hustle and bustle. This could be a separate room with their bed, toys, and water. Familiar items like a favorite blanket or a piece of clothing with your scent can provide additional comfort.
• Exercise Before the Event: A good way to manage hyperactivity is to ensure your dog gets plenty of exercise before guests arrive. A long walk or play session can help burn off excess energy, making your dog calmer and more inclined to rest.
• Interactive Toys and Puzzles: To keep your dog occupied and mentally stimulated, provide interactive toys or puzzle feeders. These can be especially useful for dogs that need constant activity and can prevent them from seeking attention in disruptive ways.
• Consider Calming Aids: If your dog tends to be extremely anxious, consider using calming aids like calming treats or anxiety vests. In some cases, consultation with a veterinarian for anti-anxiety medication might be necessary.
• Post-Event Downtime: After the event, give your dog some downtime. A quiet evening or a gentle walk can help them settle back into their routine.

*The survey included in this report was administered online via the survey platform Pollfish on November 13, 2023 and included no less than 1,000 respondents.

The post Holiday Plans with Pets appeared first on CertaPet®.

CertaPet surveyed 500 U.S. dog owners to learn more about their dog’s behavior during Halloween, especially as it pertains to certain seasonal activities that can often result in high stress or health dangers for dogs. 

See the results below, and learn how to keep your dog safe this Halloween.  

Halloween Candy 

Chocolate can be very dangerous to dogs, and Xylitol, an artificial sweetener found in some candies, can be especially deadly. 

According to a recent online survey of 500 U.S. dog owners, more than a third of dog owners (35%) have caught their dog trying to eat chocolate around Halloween time. 

The experts at CertaPet present the following tips to keep pets safe from Halloween candy:

• Elevated Storage: Store all Halloween candy in high cupboards or on high shelves that your dog cannot access, even when standing on their hind legs. Remember, some dogs can be quite adept at climbing, so ensure the storage spot is truly out of reach.
• Sealed Containers: If you have candy in bowls for trick-or-treaters, consider using containers with tight-fitting lids when not actively handing out treats. This can prevent your dog from sneaking a snack when you’re not looking.
• Educate Children: Make sure children understand the dangers of feeding candy to pets. They might be tempted to share their haul with their furry friend, so it’s essential they know which foods are harmful.
• Immediate Clean-Up: After trick-or-treating, ensure that all candy bags are picked up and stored away immediately. Children might accidentally leave bags on the floor or within a dog’s reach, so a quick sweep of the area is a good idea.
• Trash Precautions: When disposing of candy wrappers, ensure that the trash can has a secure lid. Dogs might be tempted by the scent and rummage through the garbage, ingesting wrappers in the process.
• Monitor Behavior: Even with precautions, there’s always a chance your dog might ingest something they shouldn’t. Keep an eye on them for any signs of distress, such as vomiting, diarrhea, rapid breathing, increased heart rate, or seizures. If you suspect they’ve consumed candy, especially chocolate or anything containing xylitol, contact your vet immediately.
• Safe Alternatives: If you want your dog to join in the festivities, consider buying or making dog-safe treats. This way, they can have a special snack while everyone else enjoys their candy.

If you find your dog eating chocolate or suspect that they may have eaten chocolate, call your veterinarian or local veterinary ER clinic immediately. Chocolate toxicity can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, tremors, and even internal bleeding.

Halloween Guests

Halloween can also be a stressful time for dogs because of the number of strangers coming to the door throughout the evening. 

More than a quarter of dog owners (28%) say their dog barks and/or howls excessively when trick-or-treaters ring the doorbell, and more than 1 in 6 dog owners (17%) say their dog exhibits other signs of anxiety (such as withdrawal, fearful behavior, running away, etc.) in response to the same. 

To combat this anxiety, 43% of dog owners use calming treats to keep their dog relaxed, while 44% rely on a chew toy or bone to keep their dog occupied. Nearly 1 in 5 dog owners (19%) also play calming music to help their dog manage anxiety. 

CertaPet offers the following tips to help dog owners keep their canine companion comfortable and safe this Halloween: 

• Safe Space: Create a quiet, comfortable space for your dog away from the front door. This can be a room with their bed, toys, and some soft music or white noise. This will help shield them from the constant doorbell ringing and excited shouts of trick-or-treaters.
• Distraction: Provide your dog with a new toy or a treat-dispensing puzzle to keep them occupied. This will not only distract them from the noise but also give them a positive association with the evening’s activities.
• Identification: Ensure your dog has a collar with an ID tag and, if possible, a microchip. With the frequent opening and closing of doors, there’s a risk your pet might dart out. Proper identification can help them get back to you faster if they get lost.
• Desensitization: If your dog is particularly anxious, consider desensitizing them to the sound of the doorbell or knocking in the weeks leading up to Halloween. Play the sounds at a low volume and reward your dog for staying calm, gradually increasing the volume as they get more comfortable.

Halloween Costumes

Finally, not all dogs enjoy dressing up for festivities. In fact, 1 in 5 dog owners surveyed say they don’t plan on dressing their dog up for Halloween. When asked the reason why, 48% stated their dog doesn’t like wearing costumes. 

While dressing up pets can be a delightful part of Halloween, their comfort and safety should always come first. CertaPet offers the below guide on ensuring a dog’s costume is safe, along with alternatives for dogs who aren’t fans of dressing up:

Checking the Safety of a Dog’s Costume:

• Fit: Ensure the costume fits well. It shouldn’t be too tight or too loose. A tight costume can restrict movement and cause discomfort, while a loose one can get caught on objects or cause the dog to trip.
• Breathing: Check that the costume doesn’t press against the dog’s throat or restrict their airways. They should be able to breathe easily and bark without any hindrance.
• Vision and Hearing: Costumes shouldn’t cover the dog’s eyes or ears unless they’re made of a very thin, breathable material. Obstructing these senses can be disorienting and stressful for them.
• Easy On and Off: The costume should be easy to put on and take off. If you’re struggling to dress your dog, it’s a sign that the costume might not be a good fit or that your dog is uncomfortable.
• Check for Small Parts: Ensure there are no small, easily detachable parts that your dog could chew off and swallow, such as buttons or tassels.
• Material: The fabric should be non-irritating to your dog’s skin. Avoid costumes with rough edges or internal tags that might cause itching or discomfort. Additionally, consider whether or not the costume’s material may cause your dog to feel overheated, especially when it comes to dog breeds with already thick coats. 

Alternatives to Full Costumes:

• Bandanas: A festive bandana can be a simple and comfortable way to dress up your dog without the constraints of a full costume.
• Collar Charms: Attach a Halloween-themed charm or pendant to your dog’s collar for a subtle touch of festivity.
• Decorative Collars: Swap out their regular collar for one with a Halloween design.
• Hats or Headbands: Some dogs might tolerate a light hat or headband. However, always ensure it’s not too tight and doesn’t obstruct their vision or hearing.
• Themed Toys: If your dog isn’t keen on wearing anything, you can still get them in the Halloween spirit with themed toys like pumpkin squeakers or ghost plushies.

Remember, the most important thing is your dog’s comfort and well-being. If they show any signs of distress or discomfort, it’s best to skip the costume altogether and opt for a more relaxed way to celebrate.

*The survey included in this report was administered online on October 10, 2023 through the survey platform Pollfish and included no less than 500 respondents.

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