APAW Offers Helpful Tips for Stress-free Holidays with Your Pets

Via PR Newswire - In the spirit of the season, the Advocacy for Pets and Affordable Wellness (APAW) has announced seven unconventional tips to help pet parents, as well as anyone hosting a pet visitor, enjoy the holidays while ensuring their pets are safe, healthy and happy.

As part of the organization's ongoing commitment to pet affordability and wellness issues, APAW offers valuable, pet owner insights and simple solutions to counteract unexpected situations that could affect the well-being of any four-legged friends during the holidays.

"The hustle and bustle of the season, paired with the presence of unfamiliar house guests and decor, can often create an overwhelming environment for pets and pet parents," says pet lifestyle expert Charlotte Reed. "There are simple measures pet parents and home owners alike can take to prevent unfavorable situations, such as potential health issues or home hazards."

APAW suggests the following seasonal tips and guidelines to prepare your home properly and ensure pet wellness during the holidays:

• Calm your pet using food-grade peppermint oil. One teaspoon warmed and gently rubbed on a pet's paws will relieve stress and tension. 
• Secure your garbage can at all times. Harness your pet's curiosity and safeguard against unnecessary emergency visits and expenses by taking steps to fasten garbage bags and toss unwanted gift wrapping and other festive materials that could cause potential digestive problems. 
• Use cinnamon oil spray to keep your dog or cat away from the holiday tree. Fill a 3oz. spray bottle with water and 5-7 drops of cinnamon oil—spray around the base to deter pets from tampering with the tree. 
• Administer flea and tick medicine prior to arrival of guests. Proper application of this topical medication will help make your home more inviting and comfortable for your guests. 
• Keep over-feeding at bay. Supply healthy snacks for guests to feed your pet and cut back on regular food intake. 
• Use potting soil as an alternative to cat litter. This handy household ingredient can be used as a temporary fix when necessary. 
• Give your pup a quick clean. Mixing cornstarch with baking soda and salt yields a simple dry shampoo to freshen up a dog's coat—perfect for surprise visits and holiday photo ops. 

APAW offers expert advice and information about purchasing more affordable, vet-grade pet medications at retail pharmacies in your neighborhood. To learn more about APAW and how it supports and empowers pet owners across the U.S., please visit APAW.org.