PET ETIQUETTE 101

How to keep everyone happy when visitors are afraid of or allergic to your animals

TIRE YOUR PETS OUT

Before guests arrive at your home, be sure to walk your dog or play with your cat. Like people, pets will be more relaxed after exercise and likely to sit on their bed and have a nap.

CORDON OFF AN AREA

Often the scariest part for a visitor is to have dogs jumping up and barking when they arrive. If you know a guest isn’t used to pets, consider cordoning off an area away from the front door using baby gates. That way your pet can see what is going on but is corralled and will calm down, and likely sleep, once the visitor has settled in.

WHEN THEY’RE ALLERGIC

Dust and vacuum thoroughly before the allergic person arrives, and wash all your pet’s bedding. Your furry friend should be in a separate part of the home, or, if you have a dog, have someone take them for a walk. To prevent sniffles, consider entertaining in an outdoor room.