Scratchings-and-Sniffings

Posted: 25 Nov 2009 07:57 AM PST

I just read an interesting article in the NY Times about the trials and tribulations of getting together with the family for Thanksgiving. For many of us, it's a good time. My daughter Claire is coming home with her dog Miles and we're entertaining about sixteen close friends. I'm looking forward to it.

For some, as the Times article implies, family gatherings can become stressful events. This particular piece is about food and family tensions. Been there. In my family the worst possible fate in life is to be overweight. My ninety three year old mom is still trying to lose those extra five pounds. Seriously.

We already have both a Thanksgiving day and Friday bike ride in the works to account for the additional calories we'll take in on Thursday. Mountain Bikes on Thursday and road bikes on Friday.

Even in the best of family situations holiday gatherings can be stressful. That stress can extend to our pets, too, and it behooves us all to take a few precautions when it comes to our dogs and cats.

Did you know that after July 4th, Thanksgiving and Christmas are right up there in terms of lost pets?

It's true and the culprit is usually some change in routine associated with the arrival of guests. The general increase in activity is enough to make some cats head for the hills. You can imagine how a pet feels when things go crazy. Nieces and nephews, grandkids and "helpful" mothers-in-law, can all contribute to a sense of chaos in an unsuspecting dog or cat.

Here are a few tips to help keep your cat and dog safe:

1. Talk to the kids, and in some cases, the adults. Let them know how to approach and play with the cat or dog. Some cats don't take kindly to being picked up by a little stranger, let alone grabbed by the tail. Same goes for the dog. You'll need less antibiotic ointment and fewer band aids if you lay a few ground rules.

2. Leashes, collars,tags and chips: Make sure the cat and dog have their collars on and discuss the rules for taking them outside or for walks. If you use tags to identify your dog or cat make sure the info is up to date. If you micro chip your pet make sure the info in his database is up to date, too.

3. Windows and doors: With all the family and guests coming and going escapes can be a real issue. Stressed dogs and cats may seize any opportunity to bolt. Keep a watchful eye and see number 2 above.

4. Food: Try to keep the pets on their normal diet. Hold the rich food, desserts, chocolate and raisins. They won't feel left out if you deny them that big chunk of turkey skin either. If each one of your guests gives them an itty, bitty treat it can add up fast. It's enough to clean up the kitchen after TG dinner let alone cleaning up after a sick dog or cat.

5. Give them some attention: Your pet is going to be dealing with a lot so don't forget to take them for walks and give them plenty of pats and hugs. They will need it. You probably will, too. Your pet, unlike your mom, sibling or in-law, probably won't look askance as you grab that second piece of pie or don't grab that second piece of pie, for that matter. Whatever.

We know where to go for that unconditional love.

And hey, this is just a tune up. Christmas is right around the corner.