FOUR PAWS explains the stress factors for dogs in the hustle and bustle of the holidays
Hamburg. The Christmas market season has started. What is a great way to get in the mood for Christmas for many people can quickly become a major stress factor for dogs. The global animal welfare foundation FOUR PAWS recommends that it is best to leave your dog at home when visiting the Christmas market and gives owners tips if they cannot avoid taking them with them.
“Crowds of people, loud noises and accidental kicks on paws and tails are more of a horror than Christmas anticipation for dogs, who have a very developed sense of hearing and smell. In the dense Christmas market hustle and bustle, they are exposed to many strangers, stimuli and smells. And last but not least, it usually worries your own dog if you feel rushed or have to push through crowds when visiting the Christmas market,” says Dr. Sabrina Karl, pet expert at FOUR PAWS.
How to minimize stress for your dog and yourself
If there is no other option and the dog has to go to the Christmas market, you should find out in advance whether dogs are allowed to be taken to the Christmas market. In addition, it is best to go at times of day when it is usually not that crowded.
“Keep your dog on a short leash at the Christmas market. This will help you avoid tripping hazards for other visitors. This will also give you a better guarantee that he will not possibly injure himself on broken glass. To be on the safe side, put a well-fitting muzzle on your four-legged friend so that he is not tempted to eat food lying on the floor that is harmful or even dangerous for him. This will also prevent him from snapping as a reflex if he is accidentally kicked “If you have a small dog, hold it in your arms for protection,” says the FOUR PAWS pet expert.
Recognize if the dog is uncomfortable
Not every four-legged friend can tolerate the stress that comes with large gatherings of people. “Look out for signs of discomfort: Does your dog have his tail stuck between his legs? Are his ears back, his pupils very enlarged and is he constantly licking his lips or panting more? Then it's time for you to leave the Christmas market together. Animal welfare should come first,” says Dr. Sabrina Karl.
The best tip: leave the dog at home
FOUR PAWS' clear recommendation is that it's best to spare your dog the hustle and bustle at the Christmas market. “Train stress-free alone time with your dog in a timely, positive and small way and, if necessary, get help from a certified dog trainer. Alternatively, you can ask friends or neighbors who are familiar with the dog to look after it while you have fun at the Christmas market,” says the expert.