Let’s get festive!
The countdown has begun, so follow Karen Bush’s advice on how to have a fun, happy, and safe Christmas for you, your family, and your dog.
DID YOU KNOW?
Sixty one per cent of owners give
their dogs
a Christmas dinner.
FUN & GAMES
You’re never too old for a game of hide-and-seek, and it’s one your dog can join in too. Give everyone a dog treat, send them off to hide, then accompany your dog, encouraging him to ‘find’ them and receive his yummy reward.
● That good old standby of a Kong tightly stuffed with delicious treats will keep your dog happily occupied when you’re busy. It can also help him settle and calm down if he’s getting a bit over-excited with all the Christmas activity.
● Walk off Christmas calories by taking your dog for an after-lunch walk; try a different route with new sights, sounds, and sniffs for him to enjoy.
● Get together with a group of dog-owning friends for a winter walk on Boxing Day, and make an occasion of it; ask everyone to bring refreshments to share at the end such as cake, sausage rolls, a thermos of hot chocolate with marshmallows to float on top, plus of course, treats for the dogs.
BAH HUMBUG!
Some dogs love the buzz of Christmas, but it can make others grumpy. Stick to your dog’s usual routine as much as possible, and provide a space he can retreat to when he wants peace and quiet. A covered crate with cosy bedding and a favourite toy inside will be more of a haven than an open bed, and is less likely to be tripped over.