Welcome to the Pet Rescue by Judy Blog, your go-to resource for everything related to pet adoption and care in Central Florida. Here, we share inspiring adoption stories that highlight the joy and love pets bring into our lives.
In addition to heartwarming tales, our blog offers valuable tips for fostering pets, ensuring that both the animals and their caregivers have the best experience possible. Whether you are a seasoned volunteer or considering helping out for the first time, our guides will provide you with the information you need to make a difference.
We also feature a list of pet-friendly places around Sanford, FL, perfect for enjoying time with your furry friends. From parks to cafes, discover locations that welcome pets with open arms.
Join our community of pet lovers and stay updated with our latest posts. Together, we can make a positive impact on the lives of pets in need.
Game Nights, Sports Fans and Pets: Keeping Animals Calm at Home
The title of this post nods to hockey, and plenty of Central Florida households build their evenings around a big game. The Florida Panthers have a loyal following across the state, and watch parties are a popular way to spend a winter night. For anyone who has recently adopted or is fostering an animal, though, a loud evening of cheering can be stressful for a pet that is still settling in. A little planning keeps the fun going for everyone.
Before the game starts
- Exercise first. A long walk or a play session before guests arrive helps dogs relax, and a tired pet is far less likely to be startled by sudden shouts.
- Set up a quiet room. Give your pet a bedroom or crate area away from the television, with water, a familiar blanket and a chew toy or puzzle feeder.
- Use soft background noise. A fan or calm music can soften the roar of a goal celebration.
During the evening
Ask guests not to share snacks. Many game-night foods, including chocolate, grapes, onions, garlic and anything sweetened with xylitol, can be dangerous for dogs and cats. Keep bowls of chips and wings well out of reach, and secure trash bags with bones in them. Check that doors are kept closed, because a nervous rescue animal may try to slip out while people come and go.
Reading the signs of stress
Panting, pacing, hiding, tucked tails or flattened ears suggest your pet needs a break. Newly adopted animals in particular may not yet trust a crowd, so let them choose whether to join in rather than pulling them into the room. If your pet shows ongoing anxiety around noise, it is worth talking to your veterinarian about options.
Foster families can find more ideas for helping animals adjust in our fostering section, and if a game-night companion is what your home is missing, browse the animals waiting on our adoption page. A calm, well-prepared household makes every celebration, win or lose, a good night for pets and people alike.
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