Christmas Pictures with Santa

Many pet owners think of their companions as "children" and treat them as such.  At Christmas time that may mean a visit to sit on or near Santa at one of the local stores providing pictures to cherish for years.  There are a few things to consider if this is what you chose for your companion animal.

Recall that although Christmas is fun and full of decorations, family, friends and food, it is not fun for your dog.  Most companion animals find this time of year a bit stressful.  Taking into account your pups fears and anxiety a few rules should be followed when you head off to get that revered picture with Santa.

Most of the facilities that offer pictures for pets with Santa are held in pet stores.   Make sure your animal is already fairly well socialized and not a people or animal biter.  Before even leaving the house, feed your pet at least two hours prior to leaving so they have time to digest, drink water, relax and use the potty.  When it is time to go, pick a well fitting collar that will not allow your pet to slip out and a short leash.  If you have a particular collar you wish to use in the photo, bring it along and don't put it on the pet until they are ready for the actual photo.  Pick a short leash, no longer than four feet, and not a retractable.   This will ensure your animal is under your immediate control and supervision at all times.  If there is a place close to the area where the photos will be taken that you can relieve your pet, go there right before you enter the building.  This will give an added advantage to lessen the possibility of the pet voiding while inside the store. 

Once you enter, there is usually a list to get in line until  they call your name.  Other times, you merely have to wait in a line.  The dog will be experiencing a million new scents, sounds and other animals possibly of  different species.  Keep your focus on the dog at the end of the leash.  Far too quickly a skirmish can break out between two unfamiliar animals, possibly ending in tragedy.  It is your responsibility to not  look all around but watch for possible conflicts and observe the level of tension in your dog.  Do not allow strangers to feed treats to your dog or pet him.  The anxiety is high and possibly they  feel protective, territorial, or fearful and snap even if normally they are great with people.  It is likely children  are running around the store and not  supervised by parents, another big thing to watch for as children tend to run up to any strange dog and think they are all friendly. 

Keep  emotions in check and  be as relaxed as possible  to emanate positive feelings through the leash.  When it is  time for the photo, realize that not many dogs see a jolly man with a full beard and hat.  Some dogs key off of certain facial hair or uniforms and Santa will be covered in all the previous animals scent.  Calmly bring the pet up to Santa and let them sniff.  Don't  worry about taking a bit of time and people the waiting.  Once the dog seems calm, place the collar you wish on the animal and leave on the leash, unless your dog is totally voice controlled off leash.  Hand the leash to Santa, or ask him to place it under his boot so it does not show in the photo.  If the dog is small, Santa may hold him on his lap, if it is a larger dog, place them in a sit/stay and slowly back out of the frame.  Some times the photographer  uses a squeaky toy to get the ears of the dogs up, or makes cat meowing noises.  Clue the photographer in or stand behind him and use whatever you know is motivator for your dog.  (Saying cookies, treats, go for a ride, go for a walk are all good ideas)

Remember if your dog is stressed they will  pant, often photos show dogs with their mouth open.  After a couple of shots your session is finished.  Calmly approach the dog, pick up the leash and walk directly out of the store.  (Usually the photos are prepaid).   Take your companion to a spot to relieve themselves and back to the car.  Offer water and maybe a nice walk when  home to completely relax them. 

A bit of time, patience and planning can make the  pictures with Santa a beautiful lasting memory for you, and a safe time for everyone else.  Avoid disaster by keeping in mind  the Christmas holiday only benefits us humans.   Peace, joy and love to all of my readers and their beloved companions this Christmas season .


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