Holiday Tradition Offers Reminder, Treats and Care For Local Pets

On December 26, 2025 writer Carrie Classon published an essay recalling an old Scandinavian belief that animals could speak on Christmas Eve and describing small acts of care she practices for animals during the holidays. Classon recounted childhood stories from her Swedish mother, the daily complaints of her cat Felix and her recent habit of giving dog treats on walks after asking the owner for permission. She described the scene many pet owners will recognize when a dog recognizes her on the street and seems ready to say, "Hey! It’s the treat lady!"

Classon used those personal details to connect to a longer seasonal tradition tied to the winter solstice. She described how, historically, people offered extra food to livestock on the longest night to reassure animals through cold and darkness. That context framed a simple argument for modern pet care at a time when families travel, visitors arrive and routines change.

For Hernando County residents the practical implications are clear. The holidays bring more visitors, irregular schedules and unfamiliar situations that can stress animals. Pets may face noisy gatherings, travel and altered feeding or walking routines. Classon’s essay is a reminder that small steps can reduce that stress. Asking permission before offering a treat, maintaining familiar routines when possible and monitoring animals around strangers and costumes can help pets stay secure during seasonal disruptions.

Beyond individual acts, the piece underscores a civic dimension. Local animal shelters, veterinary clinics and county animal services are part of community resilience when holiday plans disrupt normal care. Residents can reduce demand on emergency services by arranging boarding, confirming microchip information and keeping veterinary contacts accessible before travel.

Classon closed by urging more than seasonal charity, suggesting that quiet attentiveness to animals and to one another is the core need this time of year. For Hernando County that message translates into practical choices that keep pets safe and neighborhoods steady through the holidays.