So here is a quick 'refresher course' to help them shine as the holidays approach!

1. Be especially patient with your humans during this time. They may appear to be more stressed-out than usual and they will appreciate long comforting dog leans, nuzzles and especially your company on the 'good' sofa when they are resting.

2. They may come home with large bags of things they call gifts. Do not assume that all the gifts are yours. Be patient, a few discreet sniffs should verify something good is coming.

3. Be tolerant if your humans put decorations on you. They seem to get some special kind of pleasure out of seeing how you look with fake antlers, big red bows and angel wings.

4. They may bring a large tree into the house and set it up in a prominent place and cover it with lights and decorations. Bizarre as this may seem to you, it is an important ritual for your humans, so there are some things you need to know: Don't pee on the tree - don't drink water in the container that holds the tree. Mind your tail when you are near the tree-if there are packages under the tree, even ones that smell interesting or that have your name on them, don't rip them open, yet - don't chew on the cord that runs from the funny-looking hole in the wall to the tree and eat nothing in the vicinity of the tree.

5. Your humans may occasionally invite lots of strangers to come visit during this season. These parties can be lots of fun, but they also call for some discretion on your part: Not all strangers appreciate kisses and leans (go figure)- don't eat off the buffet table - beg for goodies subtly - be pleasant, even if unknowing strangers sit on your sofa - don't drink out of glasses that are left within your reach. Remember ...they will go away...and some may even bring you presents.

Likewise, your humans may take you visiting. Here your manners will also be important: Observe all the rules in #4 for trees that may be in other people's houses. Respect the territory of other animals that may live in the house - tolerate children - they might let you play with their toys and they are often your best bet for treats when no one is looking. Be charming!

6. A big man with a white beard and a very loud laugh may emerge from your fireplace in the middle of the night. DON'T BITE HIM!! (and don't sneak his cookies either)