HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS

"Over the river and through the woods, to Grandmother's (or to Sister Susie's or son John's or to your best friend's) house we go…."

Most of us view the holidays as a time to be with family or friends, which means for several days we could either be a guest or we could be hosting guests in our own home. Regardless of which situation occurs, incorporating plans for the pet becomes an integral piece of holiday preparations.

Because my pets are so intimately connected to our family life, my ideal scenario is to include them in our holiday plans. I must confess to some high-handed attitude when "No" has been an unacceptable answer for holiday visits with pets to close family; if they wanted us to visit, they either got all of us or none at all. In the spirit of Christmas, however, I can't endorse this approach: "Do as I say, not do as I do!" Definitely ask your host, even if it's your parents or best pal, if they will allow you to bring your pet along, and say up front, and mean it, that your pet will be your full responsibility during your stay.

If your host, or you, if you are the host, prefers not to have a dog or cat as a houseguest, then that decision should be respected. Just be clear when issuing or confirming an invitation with family or friends. Explain, "We would love to have you visit over the holidays, but we can't accommodate Ceci during this hectic time too. I hope you have a pet sitter or kennel there where she can stay." Feel free to elaborate with your reasons, or just say, "I hope you understand."

Even the most highly-anticipated holiday visit can take an unexpected turn if your pets don't get along. One visit not long ago involved our dogin law, Boomer, a rambunctious 5- year old, unaltered yellow Lab. His family went to extreme lengths to bring Boomer to Nantucket, splitting into two travel groups, one arriving by air and one by car, so that Boomer could make the trip. It's true; he had made a successful visit to Nantucket a few years before, when he was much younger. Then, Boomer and our Junior played doggie dominance games for two days and ran themselves senseless around and around outside the house. Tuckered out and sorted out, all was in order and the remainder of the visit was calm and enjoyable for everyone.

This last visit was an entirely different story. Both Junior and Boomer were older, and there was to be no peace. This was Junior's turf and he wasn't about to let an intact male intruder invade his space. His doggie dominance actions meant business and Boomer, not to mention Boomer's mother, was, rightly so, terrified.

Lacking a doggie playmate, Boomer also discovered the freedom of our yard, where there were no fences like those surrounding his small suburban back yard. At the first opportunity, off he would go, with the entire family soon scattered in hot pursuit. Once the lines were drawn, for the entire week, Boomer spent the bulk of it restricted by a leash or long line or sequestered in a separate room. Boomer probably enjoyed his visit more than anyone else in his anxious and protective family.

Sometimes instant compatibility can be a challenge. To help your pet put his best paw forward during this holiday season, there are some basic guidelines that can help ease introductions, whether for an afternoon visit or a longer stay.

With dogs that are new to each other, or getting reacquainted, it's best for introductions to take place in a neutral zone so neither dog becomes afraid or aggressive. After the initial greeting behaviors are over with, take both dogs for a walk on a leash, walking side by side. This gives the dogs something to do they enjoy, a chance to expend a little energy and an opportunity to get to know each other in a non-threatening situation.

Back inside, leave leashes on so there is immediate control close at hand if needed. To eliminate potential sources of conflict, keep all treats and toys out of sight and feed meals in separate locations. Closing off the visitor's designated space with a baby gate at the door allows visual contact without danger of interaction. Above all, try to remain calm so you don't impart tension or anxiety to the dogs.

Cats can be very sensitive to changes in their environment and successfully introducing cats to either new cats or dogs can take weeks. Being inherently curious, a strange location demands extensive exploration. It might be best to confine kitty to a single room until she gets comfortable, removing breakables for safekeeping. If you know you can purchase supplies at your destination, then that saves toting along stuff from home. Otherwise, bring along a disposable litter box with some of the same litter used at home. In your travel kit also include food, favorite toys and a small mat or bed.

Most of all, try to maintain your routines and give your pets, whether host or visitor, some quality time alone with you during the busy days ahead and just enjoy being together.

Have a Merry Christmas! I

Jan Jaeger is owner of Geronimo's, Ltd., Nantucket's pet supply and gift shop, and is a member of DWAA and CWA (Dog and Cat Writer's Associations of America). Her pets at home are Junior, a Chesapeake Bay Retriever, and three cats. At the shop are cats Messrs. Fish and Chips, Flower bunny, Millie guinea pig and two budgies. Send email to jan@geronimos.com.