The holidays are a time for joy, but for our pets, the change in routine can be stressful. The excitement of family gatherings, loud noises and unfamiliar faces can make dogs and cats anxious.

With a few simple precautions, you can help your pets feel secure and comfortable while you enjoy the festivities.

Update their identification

Before the holiday rush begins, ensure your pet’s identification is current. A collar with a tag containing current contact information is essential, and microchipping your pet offers an added layer of security.

If your pet gets lost during the holiday activities, having up-to-date contact details can help reunite you quickly.

Secure the perimeter

There’s more risk of your pet escaping with more guests coming and going. Keep an eye on gates, doors and windows during arrivals and departures.

If you can’t actively monitor these areas, consider confining your pet to a quiet room where they can’t unexpectedly dash outside.

Offer fun distractions

Entertaining guests can be overwhelming for pets, so provide some activities to keep them busy. Food-dispensing toys, chewable treats or interactive puzzles can help keep their minds engaged and reduce stress.

Just be sure to keep them in a calm, safe area away from the noise of your gatherings.

Not every event needs a pet

While bringing your pet to every festive gathering might be tempting, sometimes it’s better to leave them at home.

If your dog or cat isn’t comfortable with crowds or unfamiliar people, they’ll likely feel more at ease staying in familiar surroundings. Give them some enrichment activities to enjoy while you’re out.

Fireworks and noise anxiety

Loud fireworks can be terrifying for pets because their hearing is far more sensitive than ours. To protect them from the firework distress, create a haven away from windows or doors. Close the curtains, turn on background noise (like a TV or radio) and keep them inside.

A walk earlier in the day could help calm your pet before the evening’s noise begins. Offering a favourite treat or chew toy can also be a positive distraction.

Stick to their routine

Pets thrive on routine, so try to maintain their usual feeding, sleeping and exercise schedules as much as possible. A predictable routine can help them feel more secure, even when the surroundings differ.

With these simple steps, you can help ensure your pets stay safe, relaxed and comfortable during the festive season. After all, a calm pet makes for a much happier holiday.

• Information from SPCA