The Pet Dilemma... what to do?

Pet Advice
1

I’m feeling really stressed about Christmas this year. My kids won’t come home without their pets, and we already have two dogs and two cats. I told them they need to be responsible for their pets and find someone to care for them, but my husband just said everyone should come anyway. I’m worried about our pets getting stressed and potential fights. It doesn’t feel fair to our animals or like it’s teaching the kids any responsibility. Thoughts?

2

That’s a tough spot to be in. Hosting extra pets can definitely disrupt your home and stress your own animals. Have you talked to your husband about setting some boundaries?

3

Tan said:
That’s a tough spot to be in. Hosting extra pets can definitely disrupt your home and stress your own animals. Have you talked to your husband about setting some boundaries?

Yeah, maybe you could compromise by limiting the number of extra pets or making clear rules about care?

4

@Pierce
Exactly! It might help to keep things organized and reduce stress for everyone.

5

I can see why you’re worried. It’s important to balance family time with the well-being of your pets. Maybe create a plan for keeping the animals separated?

6

Morgan said:
I can see why you’re worried. It’s important to balance family time with the well-being of your pets. Maybe create a plan for keeping the animals separated?

Good idea! That could really help prevent any conflicts between the pets.

7

It’s totally fair to want to protect your pets’ space. Maybe talk to the kids about the importance of responsibility and why it matters.

8

Joy said:
It’s totally fair to want to protect your pets’ space. Maybe talk to the kids about the importance of responsibility and why it matters.

That’s a great point! Teaching them responsibility is key, especially when it comes to pets.

9

I get it, it’s a lot to manage! Maybe suggest they find a pet sitter or a friend to help? It could ease your worries.

10

PetInvestigator said:
I get it, it’s a lot to manage! Maybe suggest they find a pet sitter or a friend to help? It could ease your worries.

That sounds like a solid plan! Taking some of the load off you would definitely help.