Dog Crate Safety for the Holidays

The Holidays are upon us and it is a wonderful time to spend with your families, friends, and loved ones.  The Holiday season is stressful for some as well as a time for enjoyment.  The same goes for our dogs too.  Being around many new and loud people can cause stress in our dogs.  Dog crates come in very handy during this time of year.  Make sure you properly use a dog crate for you dog during the Holiday season as well as any other time of year.  Your dog can be overwhelmed with all of the different faces and emotions that our human family members can bring during this time of year.  Especially when young children are involved, keep an extra eye out for any signs of stress on your pet.  While your dog may be the nicest, calmest dog in the world, Unfamiliar and unwanted attention could bring out a reaction that is not desired.  If put in a situation that your pet does not enjoy, he or she will likely use the fight or flight mechanism.  This does not mean that your dog is a bad or mean dog.  It is just a natural instinct.  That is when your dog crate can be a very comfortable safe haven for your pet during this stressful season.  If you keep an eye out for the early warning signs such as you dog moving away when being approached, and doing everything possible to remove itself from a situation, then you will be far ahead of the game and be able to put your dog in its crate before you ever see hair standing on end, a curled lip, or a growl.  Obviously, these signs are not desired behaviors from your dog, but watching out for them could prevent a more disastrous behavior.  Dog crates are great tools, both for training and for providing a safe environment for both your pet and your guests.  Use them properly and have a safe and happy holiday.