THE Christmas season is a great time for family get-togethers and enjoying a mince pie beside the fire, but extra visitors can be a source of stress for pets.

Disruption of their usual routine and over-enthusiastic attention from unfamiliar people or children can make dogs and cats feel scared and uncomfortable. Here are some tips to keep animals and family members safe over the festive period:

Give pets their own space to hide in if they feel overwhelmed, where they won’t be disturbed.

Visitors or children should never disturb your pet if your pet is:

• Eating

• Playing with a toy or something else they really like

• Sleeping

• Blind or deaf, as they can react unpredictably if startled

Keep an eye on your dog’s body language. The following are signs that they are feeling uncomfortable and want to be left alone:

• Head lowered

• Tail between legs

• Licking lips

• Avoiding eye contact or turning their head away

• Yawning

Fireworks around New Year can be very stressful for dogs and cats. It is advisable to keep pets indoors if fireworks are likely to go off. If animals get very distressed by fireworks, medications can be prescribed by your vet to keep them calm.

For more information telephone Westridge Vets on 01363 83317.