Pets can become jealous and aggressive towards children, quit eating or have bad behavior such as soiling the carpet. Some pets enjoy the noises, people and excitement of the holidays. Pet owners should consider their pet's temperament and history when the holidays arrive. These dogs resent losing the attention of their mature owners. Hopper said if a pet has a history of being agitated around guests, owners should consider consulting their veterinarian about a low dose of tranquilizers for a few days.
Tranquilizers also help some pets who have trouble traveling.
Short of using these, owners could board pets who have trouble with holiday guests. But even if the pet adapts to extra people in the house and a disturbed routine, the holidays present many dangers to pets. Dr. Pat McCoy, toxicologist at the veterinary college, said chocolate, part of many holiday celebrations, should never be given to pets as it is toxic to them. With the holidays come leftovers, some of which can be fed to pets. Hopper said dishes like turkey and dressing can be fed to dogs, but don't use dogs as a garbage disposal.