PET CARE
Stick to Your Normal Routine This Holiday Season
A predictable routine can be very important for pets- especially amidst the hustle and bustle of the holidays. Specific things such as meals, walks, play time and bedtime may often occur on schedule each day. Whatever schedule has worked for your pets thus far- stick to it!
Sticking to your Pet’s Normal Schedule
If you normally feed Fluffy or Fido first thing in the morning, make sure to do so. If you have a day filled with errands, but your pet is accustomed to a mid-day walk, it may be important to try and accommodate. Pets don’t understand the dozens of duties that must be balanced around the holiday season. Disrupting basic routines as little as possible can help provide a sense of order- even as their lives are filled with new decorations, strange guests, and even new noises and smells. If kids are home from school, or relatives are visiting, it’s possible duties may be split amongst various humans. It may be helpful to keep a checklist of your dog or cat’s daily needs so that nothing gets missed throughout each day.
Things that Your Pet may not be Able to Compromise on:
- Food (Morning/Evening)
- Vitamins
- Exercise
- Playtime
- Changing/Scooping of the Litter Box
- General Grooming
- Other important tasks to remember:
- While the above can be considered as ‘pet necessities,’ there are still other important aspects of your pet’s routine that must be managed as well.
Exercise and Playtime
Exercise and playtime allow our pets to release energy in a positive way. Although the holidays can be fun and exciting, new humans can create anxiety for our pets. Without exercise, pets can become anxious, irritable and hyperactive.1
Quality Time With Your Pet
The holidays are a time for togetherness. Whether it is snuggling on the sofa, going for a peaceful walk or throwing the ball in the yard, prioritizing personal time with your pet can make all the difference this holiday season.
Prioritize Pet Safety
While the normal routines are important to follow this holiday season, they may not be enough to keep our pets safe and healthy on their own. Luckily, MetLife Pet Insurance1 created a list of holiday safety tips, designed to keep your pet safe this holiday season. Here at MetLife, we know accidents and illnesses happen to all pets. Having an active pet insurance policy can help cover the cost of unexpected vet visits this holiday season.2