How to prepare for the holidays with your four-legged friend

More and more owners see their furry pets as full-fledged family members and would like them to be part of the celebration: with an Advent calendar, a Christmas gift, or even by having their dog go to family gatherings with them. According to the  Vigyél Haza Alapítvány, however, it is worth consciously preparing for this period and taking into account the dog’s aspects.

During Christmas visits, pets can easily be overstimulated, so it is worth designating a peaceful corner for them in advance where they can retreat at any time. If you take them with you to visit, familiar objects – such as a blanket, crib, favorite toy or treat – help them feel safe. Traveling can also be a shared, stress-free experience if you pay attention to proper fixation, regularly stop for a short walk and let them explore the new environment at their own pace.

Why is the last day of the year so hard for dogs?

As New Year’s Eve approaches, the issue of fireworks and firecrackers always comes to the fore, and it often causes tension between dog owners and non-dog owners. It is important to know that dogs have much more sensitive hearing than humans, so loud noises seem unpredictable and threatening to them. At such times, they often panic, hide or, most dangerously, try to escape. According to the experience of the Take Home Foundation, the number of stray animals increases dramatically on the last day of the year.

“On New Year’s Eve, it is especially important that our pets are safe, so we ask owners to allow them into the house or apartment during this period, if possible between 6 pm and 6 am, even if they are dogs outside. It is important to create a predictable and safe environment, it is worth creating a quiet nook where they can retreat. It also helps a lot if we tire them out with a longer walk during the day, on a leash of course, so they react less nervously to noises later on. We check that there is always a ticket on the collar with contact information, and that the microchip data is up to date, which can be easily done at the vet” – emphasizes András Óvári, founder of the Vigyél Haza Foundation. “During fireworks, closed curtains, a little music or TV volume can also help to drown out external noises, and if anxiety is strong, it is worth seeking professional advice”  – he added.

Extra safety with the help of technology

The basis of safety is the microchip, but it is at least as important that it can be read quickly. The Take Home Foundation already operates free microchip readers in more than 430 locations with partners across the country. The foundation’s 12 volunteer veterinarians help with every incoming case, identifying and notifying the owner based on the chip number, so that the dogs can get home quickly and safely.

Tracking dogs was even more complicated a few years ago: separate devices, complicated settings and large trackers were the only solution. Today, small and easy-to-use smart devices used in everyday life can make walks or New Year’s Eve safer. Available at Yettel is the Apple AirTag and Samsung SmartTag can be easily attached to the collar, and the owner