🎉 Holiday Gatherings & Pet Anxiety: How to Help Your Pets Feel Calm at Home

The holiday season is here, a time for friends, family, and festive gatherings. But while we look forward to cozy get-togethers and celebrations, our pets may not share the same excitement.

Between unfamiliar guests, travel plans, loud noises, and changes to their normal routine, many cats and dogs experience increased anxiety during this time of year. At Vetr, we know that helping pets feel safe and calm starts with understanding their triggers and preparing early.

🐾 Recognizing the Signs of Holiday Stress in Pets

Every pet shows stress differently, but some of the most common signs of anxiety include:

• Hiding, trembling, or seeking constant reassurance

• Excessive panting or pacing

• Loss of appetite or refusing treats

• Destructive behaviors (like chewing or scratching)

• Whining, barking, or other unusual vocalizing

Even normally social pets can become uneasy with too much stimulation. It’s not just the noise or commotion, new scents, rearranged furniture, and unfamiliar people (especially children or visiting pets) can all throw off their sense of security.

🏡 How to Create a Calming Environment for Your Pet

There are a few simple ways to set your pet up for success before guests arrive or you head out for travel:

1. Set Up a Quiet Retreat

Choose a room or cozy corner where your pet can relax away from the activity. Include familiar bedding, toys, and water. If possible, play calming music or white noise to block out household sounds.

2. Stick to Routine

Try to keep feeding, walks, and playtime on their usual schedule. Pets find comfort in predictability, even small disruptions can add to their stress.

3. Give Guests Ground Rules

If visitors are staying over, let them know your pet’s boundaries. Ask guests not to feed table scraps or overwhelm shy pets with attention. If your pet is in their quiet retreat, encourage guests to avoid that room or space. 

4. Watch for Signs of Escalating Anxiety

If your pet starts showing signs of distress, give them space and reassurance, not punishment. For some pets, a few hours of quiet can make all the difference.

💊 When Calming Medications Can Help

For pets who are especially anxious, anti-anxiety medications or calming supplements prescribed by a veterinarian can make a world of difference.

At Vetr, our veterinarians can visit you right at home to assess your pet’s needs and recommend a plan that’s safe and effective. Whether it’s a mild situational medication for guests and travel, or a natural calming aid paired with behavioral support, our goal is to help your pet feel comfortable in their own home, where they feel safest.

Scheduling early is key. The holidays book up quickly, and starting your pet’s anxiety plan before Thanksgiving ensures they’re ready for whatever the season brings.

💛 A Calm Holiday Is a Happy Holiday

The holidays should be joyful for everyone, including your pets! By taking a few proactive steps now, you can make sure your celebrations stay filled with love, laughter, and plenty of tail wags.

If your dog or cat tends to get anxious during busy gatherings, now is the perfect time to schedule your first in-home visit with Vetr. We’ll come to you, assess your pet’s unique needs, and help you create a calming plan tailored to their personality and comfort level.

✨ Book your at-home visit today at vetrhealth.com and make this holiday season peaceful for the whole family.