By Jacques Von Lunen

Ah, the holiday season: Time to carve a turkey, put up a tree and visit far-flung relatives. None of which is much fun for pets. Here are some tips to make the next six weeks less daunting for Fido and Fluffy. 

Travel by car: Planes are stuffed with people and luggage during the holidays, making delays and cancellations the norm. This could be a big problem for an animal locked in a crate. If your destination is too far to drive, visit before or after the holidays. 

For more information about traveling with your pets, go to http://gopetfriendly.com. 

Be sure pets are welcome: Friends and relatives may include someone who's afraid of or allergic to your pet. Discuss restrictions or rules before you -- or they-- arrive. 

Brush up on obedience: New rules during travel and at your destination can be confusing for pets, but a little training before you leave will help a lot. Simple commands such as "stay," "down" and "drop it" can keep a dog from bolting out, frightening guests, or ingesting something harmful. 

Give them a safe space: Having a pet's bed or crate and its favorite toy, away from the holiday crowd, creates a welcome refuge. 

Avoid digestive disaster: It's tempting to spoil your pet with foods and treats during the holidays. Don't. Many snacks contain onions, raisins, macadamia nuts, chocolate or alcohol, which are toxic to your pet. Poultry bones splinter and can cause serious health issues. Let other guests know that your pet is well fed. 

Guard that tree: Pets can be injured if they take tinsel or ornaments off the Christmas tree, and the water in the tree stand may contain harmful bacteria. Use gates to keep the pets away from the stand.