the Flare

Dinner Parties: Managing & Accommodating Your Pets

Setting the scene for a party can be a bit of a nerve-wracking experience when you are worried about making your guests as comfortable as possible in your home. Some hosts have more than just their guests to worry about - their pets. Having a party at your home can be a tricky situation for both guests and pets, ranging from guests with pet allergies to pets that are uncomfortable with new people or large groups. But the potential challenges shouldn't stop you from throwing parties, you just have to be prepared.

First, as an individual with severe allergies, including to my own pets, I recommend having some basic allergy pills stocked in your house to help guests with allergies be as comfortable as possible. Benadryl and Claritin are both readily available and can help take the edge off of allergy symptoms. It is a good idea to include in the invitation a reminder to guests that you have pets. Even if you decide to keep pets in a separate part of the house or off-site during the party, hair and dander remaining in the house is typically still enough to set off an allergic reaction.

Then, consider the situation from your pets' perspective. I know my cats get uncomfortable with large groups of guests, so we take measures to separate them from the party to help alleviate their potential stress over the situation. Baby gates are useful for keeping the cats in one part of the house, which also makes them feel more relaxed because there is a boundary line the guests will not likely cross.

However, managing your pets' behavior in these types of situations is not always that simple. That's why it is good to have resources you can turn to for advice. Sidewalk Dogs is a great resource for those interested in finding businesses and events in the community that fit their love of dogs. The site has links to everything from dog-friendly restaurants and events, pet care service providers, and doggie products, to artists that specialize in commemorating your favorite pet, like Sarah Beth Photography. If your pet has behavioral issues that you want to work on, The Canine Coach can work with you on dog obedience, either in-home or in group classes. If you prefer to have your pets out of the house during a party, Sidewalk Dogs can connect you with a pet sitting service in your area as well. Or, if you just want a new cute outfit for your pet to show off at the party, Sidewalk Dogs will lead you to the right boutique, like Bone Adventure. Just remember that it is easier to be relaxed and enjoy your own party when you know that you have taken steps to make both your guests and your pets as comfortable with each other as possible.

- Colleen Fox Slack, Home & Culinary, the Affair