Introduction
Introduction
The holiday season is a time of joy, warmth, and togetherness. It’s also a period when our furry friends can easily get into mischief or face hazards due to the festive activities. As a pet owner, it’s essential to ensure that our pets remain safe and healthy while we indulge in the holiday cheer. In this article, we’ll explore various holiday pet hazards and provide tips to keep your pets safe and sound.
Artificial and Live Trees
Holiday trees, both artificial and live, can pose a threat to your pets. To keep your pets safe, consider placing the tree in a room they can’t access or secure it to a wall or window to prevent it from falling. Use a pet gate or indoor exercise pen to keep them away from the tree. Be mindful of sharp and indigestible tree needles; pick them up daily to prevent ingestion. Also, cover the tree water basin tightly with aluminum foil and a tree skirt to avoid bacterial growth in standing water.
Decorations
Cats and dogs are often attracted to shiny ornaments, lights, and tinsel. Ingestion of these items can lead to gastrointestinal obstruction. Avoid using tinsel or food-based decorations like popcorn strands. Place glass ornaments and lights higher on the tree, out of your pet’s reach. Be cautious of electrical cords; cover them or tape them down to prevent your pet from chewing on them and risking burns, shocks, or electrocution.
Wrapped Presents
Ribbons, bows, and other decorative items can be hazardous to your pets. They pose a choking risk and can cause intestinal obstruction if ingested. Supervise your pets around wrapped gifts and be cautious of small or removable toy parts and batteries.
Live Plants
Some live plants, such as holly, mistletoe, poinsettias, lilies, and daffodils, can be poisonous to your pets. Keep these plants in areas inaccessible to your pets. If your pet ingests any live plant, contact your veterinarian immediately for treatment recommendations.
Cold Weather
Cold weather can be challenging for pets, especially during winter walks or playtime. Consider providing your dog with booties, a warm sweater, or coat. Watch out for ice balls forming between your dog’s toes and seek veterinary assistance if frostbite is suspected. Never leave your pet unattended in a car during extreme temperatures, as it can lead to stress, frostbite, and hypothermia.
Visitors
The holiday season often brings increased traffic to your home. If your pet is nervous around strangers or heightened activity, create a quiet retreat area complete with food, water, a bed, and other essentials. Maintaining your pet’s normal routine as much as possible can help alleviate stress and anxiety caused by changes.
Table Scraps and Treats
Avoid feeding your pets table scraps or holiday goodies, as some ingredients can be toxic. Chocolate, grapes, raisins, xylitol, and macadamia nuts can cause severe illness or even death. Bones from fish, poultry, or other meat sources can lead to airway obstruction or digestive issues. Discarded meat can contain bacteria that cause food poisoning. Keep holiday desserts out of your pet’s reach.
Travel
If you plan to fly with your pet, contact your airline in advance for information on bringing your pet in the cabin, required paperwork, and other arrangements. Ensure your pet has proper identification, including an ID tag and microchip. If boarding your pet during travel, make reservations ahead of time to secure a spot.
Chemicals
De-icing salts and automotive antifreeze can be poisonous to your pets if ingested. Use pet-safe ice melt and keep chemicals out of reach. Wipe off your dog’s legs, paws, and stomach after being outdoors to remove any chemicals.
Alcohol
Keep your pet away from alcoholic beverages, as alcohol can depress their nervous system and cause various ailments, including vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and seizures.
Candles and Potpourri
Candles and potpourri can pose a risk to your pets. Keep burning candles out of reach to prevent injury and accidental house fires. Be aware that hot liquid potpourri can burn your pet, and dry potpourri can be harmful if ingested.
Lack of Attention
During the busy holiday season, it’s crucial to remember that your pets need regular mealtimes, walks, and your love and attention. Make time for playtime and try to maintain your pet’s routine as much as possible.
Conclusion
Celebrating the holidays with your pets can be a delightful and memorable experience when you take the necessary precautions to ensure their safety. By being aware of common holiday pet hazards and following the provided tips, you can create a festive and safe environment for your furry friends to enjoy. Happy holidays!