Mastering Pet-iquette: Hosting Tips for Pet Owners

From allergy awareness to understanding pet personalities, here's how to ensure a pawsitive hosting experience for all.

From one pet owner to another, we know the intrinsic value that comes from caring for an animal. That love between pet and owner is one that we enjoy sharing with friends when they visit our home. However, ownership of a scaled, feathered, or furry friend requires a few extra steps when hosting that you should be aware of. Here are our tips for maintaining excellent pet-iquette: 
 
  1. Allergy Awareness – Before your guests arrive, ask if they have any allergies to your pet. If so, make sure the animal is out of any space you’ll be hosting in, and thoroughly remove any potential allergens.  
  2. Size Matters –  There are many people who are scared of large animals, particularly dogs. If your lovable pup is over 50 pounds, make your guest aware, and keep them in a separate room if there is a problem. 
  3. Pet Personality – Knowing your pet’s likes and dislikes can help you prepare for specific situations. Are they not a fan of small children? Will they beg at the dinner table? Might an accident occur on your carpet from excitement? The individual quirks of your pet will differ, but anticipating those moments will keep your hosting running smoothly. 




***BIO FOR END OF ARTICLE*** 
Tara Darby Rasheta is a Lakewood resident. She is the Director of Development and a Certified Instructor for JDW Social Education Programs and acts as the local Chairwoman for the East Dallas Cotillion. She serves as Managing Director for the charity she founded in 2018, A Model Patient 501c3, where she delivers care packages to breast cancer patients around the country.