The holiday season may bring good cheer… but it can also bring up plenty of stressful situations for you and your pets. With many of us either traveling or hosting out-of-town family members at home, pets can get lost in the hustle and bustle of the season. Here are a few simple tips to make the holidays special for your pet:

Make them a special treat
We’ve mentioned the dangers of feeding pets table scraps before, but there are plenty of pet-friendly treat recipes out there that your pet would love! Search the internet for pet-friendly homemade recipes and whip up a holiday treat for your four-legged family member.

Get outside
Whether your pet exhibits anxious behavior when your home is filled with holiday revelers or they simply need to blow off some steam, it’s important to take time to walk, run, or play with your pet this holiday season. Not only will your pet love the attention, but you’ll get the benefits of fresh air and exercise too!

Give back to other animals
During the season of giving, you can honor your pet by making a donation in their name to support other animals! You’ll be spreading good cheer—from your happy pet to animals in need.

Find (down)time to spend with your pet
The holidays can be hectic, with packed schedules and last-minute shopping trips. While pets aren’t always involved in the activities, they do experience stress just like us humans. This season, take time to relax with your pet—we suggest cozy snuggles on the couch while watching holiday movies, but any extra loving will do.

From all of us at American Humane, wishing you and your family—including the four-legged members—a very happy holiday!