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(BPT) - Though everyone cherishes the holidays as an opportunity to catch up with friends and family, they don't always feel like a vacation. AAA estimates that more than 98.6 million people travel over the holidays each year - meaning that neither trains, planes, or automobiles are going to protect you from the crowds.

See your pet has a Merry Holiday

Hosting guests isn't a breeze either, and no amount of online shopping seems to eliminate the need for a last-minute trip to the mall. Whether you're traveling across the country to visit in-laws or staying close to home, it's important not to forget about your pets. To ensure a safe, enjoyable season for your four-legged friends, keep these five pet safety tips in mind from the experts at DogVacay.

1. Be smart about stocking stuffers. Filling up your pet's stocking can be fun, but it's important not to get carried away. When buying special treats for the occasion, remember to check for any recalls. When shopping for toys, avoid items that have stuffing or fuzz that pups can get into and eat. If you live in a city or have neighbors, you should also be careful when buying anything that makes a lot of noise in case your pet gets carried away with the holiday spirit. Finally, remember your pet can overeat, too - keep treats in moderation to avoid an upset tummy.

2. Don't celebrate with a bang. New Year's Eve is a popular time for fireworks, and as pretty as they are, many animals are frightened by the loud noises. Shield your pet from these outside distractions by closing the curtains and playing some familiar background noises - like the stereo or television - to dampen the fireworks outside and soothe your pet's anxiety.

3. Research your boarding options. When it comes time to travel, many pet owners have no choice but to leave their pets at home. Kennels can be expensive and a poor fit for your pet, while family and friends may not be dog-and-cat people. DogVacay is a convenient and inexpensive alternative that helps pet owners find local, qualified and insured caretakers near them so their pet can get the love and attention it deserves. No matter what option you choose, be sure to read online reviews and talk to other pet owners that have used the service.

4. Decorate without the dangerous decor. Decorations in homes with pets must be planned with care. Poinsettias, for example, are a holiday staple, but unfortunately they are highly toxic for cats and dogs alike. Tinsel can also be harmful if swallowed, and causes digestion problems in both dogs and cats. Before hanging any decoration, make sure other pet owners haven't experienced complications. If you do find poinsettias and other holiday ephemera irresistable, make sure it's placed high and out-of-reach. Same goes for holiday sweets and things like chocolate. No one wants to spend Christmas dinner at the vet.

5. Keep an eye on doggie-doors. When guests arrive at your home, doors will be opening and closing constantly. If you're worried about a potential jail break, it may be helpful to download a pet tracking app like Tagg, which attaches to your pet's collar and lets you track them. That way you can find your pet at any point in the festivities, even if they do manage to get loose outdoors.

The holidays are an exciting time for families everywhere and with just a little extra planning on your part, you can make this season enjoyable for all the people and pets in your family. To learn more about how DogVacay can help make your holiday planning easier, visit DogVacay.com/how-it-works.

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