Holiday Hazards Guide

It’s easy to get caught up in the fun and festivities of the holidays, forgetting about the safety of our pets. While it may be the most exciting time for us, it can be a dangerous time for our pets due to potential hazards. By being aware of these holiday dangers to your pet, you can ensure both you and your pet the best possible holidays.

• Keep current identification on your pet at all times. With the rush of the season, it’s all too easy for a pet to become lost.

• Avoid feeding pets leftover holiday food; discourage friends and family from doing the same.
• Feeding your pets such foods can cause abdominal pain, vomiting or diarrhea, none of which are welcome during this festive weekend. There are plenty of treats that you can give your pets that are good and safe for them.

• Dispose of aluminum foil, plastic wrap, and wax paper from holiday foods. If swallowed, it can cause an intestinal obstruction.
• Make sure that your garbage is secure and your pet cannot get into it.

• Maintain your pet’s regular schedule for feeding and exercise.
• Be aware of his daily routine and expectations to reduce unnecessary stress.
• Pay as much attention to your pet as usual so that he/she will not feel neglected or insecure.

• Keep your pet home and away from large crowds. Pets can become stressed or lost in crowds.

• Provide a quiet refuge for your pet. The holidays bring in many unusual sights and loud noises that may frighten and stress your pet.
• Give your pet time and space to settle down or take a nap.
• Provide a toy or treat to keep them occupied. There are holiday toys and treats to keep up with the spirit.
• You can give your pet anti-anxiety aids like HomeoPet Anxiety to promote a sense of calmness.

• Many plants are poisonous to cats and dogs. Make sure these are inaccessible to your pets.

• Christmas trees can be dangerous to pets. Make sure there aren’t any pine needles on the ground that your pet may ingest.
• Make sure your tree is secure. If a curious pet decides to climb to the top, the tree won’t fall over.
• Don’t forget to prevent the ingestion of Christmas tree water since stagnant water or preservatives can be toxic to pets.

• Menorahs, candles and liquid potpourri pots. Fire and burns are not the only threats to pets and households. Scented items can also be harmful, especially to birds.
• The ingestion of inappropriate foods, tinsel, ribbons or garlands can cause sickness or obstruction.
• Fragile items such as glass and other ornaments pose a threat.
• Electrical cords, heated decorative bulbs, hooks, and a wide variety of other adornment items create temptations. Use pet deterrents and barriers for protection such as the Bitter Apple Spray for dogs or Stick Paws for cats.