The holiday season is a time of joy, celebration, and family gatherings, but it can also pose potential risks for our beloved pets. As we decorate our homes and prepare festive meals, it’s essential to keep our furry friends safe from hazards. Here are some helpful tips to ensure your dogs and cats have a happy and secure holiday season:
• Secure Decorations
Holiday decorations, while beautiful, can be dangerous for pets.
Choose pet-friendly ornaments**: Glass ornaments can break and cause injuries. Opt for plastic or fabric versions that are less likely to shatter.
Tinsel and ribbons**: These shiny, enticing items can lead to gastrointestinal blockages if ingested. Keep them out of reach or avoid them altogether.
Electrical cords**: Use cord covers to prevent pets from chewing on them, which can lead to electrical shocks or fires.
Secure the Christmas tree**: If you have a tree, consider anchoring it to the wall to prevent it from tipping over if a curious pet decides to investigate.
• Be Careful with Food
Holiday meals often feature food that can be harmful to pets.
No sharing from the table**: Many common holiday food, such as chocolate, onions, garlic, and grapes, are toxic to pets. Stick to their regular diet and avoid giving them table scraps.
Keep leftovers secured**: Make sure any turkey, ham, or other meats are stored safely. Bones, especially cooked ones, can splinter and cause serious internal injuries.
Watch out for festive drinks**: Alcohol can be highly toxic for pets, so keep drinks out of reach and monitor gatherings where guests may accidentally share their treats.
• Manage Stress Levels
The hustle and bustle of the holidays can be stressful for pets.
Create a safe space: Set aside a quiet area where your pets can retreat when they feel overwhelmed by guests or noise. Include their bed, toys, and fresh water.
Stick to routines: Try to maintain your pet’s feeding and exercise schedules as much as possible to minimize stress.
Introduce guests slowly: If you have visitors, supervise interactions to ensure pets are comfortable and not overwhelmed.
• Keep Holiday Plants Out of Reach
Many holiday plants are toxic to pets.
Poinsettias, mistletoe, and holly – These festive plants can cause gastrointestinal issues or even more severe reactions. Consider using faux plants instead.
Christmas lilies – Especially dangerous for cats, these can cause kidney failure. Opt for non-toxic plant options.
• Be Mindful of Traveling
If you plan to travel during the holidays, make sure your pet is taken care of.
Consider pet sitters or boarding: If traveling is unavoidable, consider hiring a professional pet sitter or using a reputable boarding facility instead of leaving them alone.
Keep identification current: Make sure your pet has a collar with ID tags and a microchip with updated contact information in case they get lost.
• Awareness of New Year’s Eve Dangers
As the year-end approaches, be mindful of the hazards posed by New Year’s Eve celebrations.
Fireworks: If you celebrate with fireworks, keep your pets indoors in a secure area to prevent escape. The loud noise can be frightening and lead to anxiety.
Party favors: Keep an eye on confetti, party streamers, and other items that could pose choking