Holiday Hazards to Avoid

     This time of year is always exciting and sometimes stressful with decorating, baking, wrapping presents, traveling, and having guests over. We get so caught up in the busyness of the holidays that we sometimes forget to prioritize our pets and their safety. We've put together a list of tips and things to avoid this season to ensure that your furry friends enjoy the holidays safely.

     You know it's Christmas time when you see the decorations out around town and in all the stores - it makes you want to run home and decorate your house too. Something about putting up a tree and hanging some lights just puts you in the holiday spirit; however, some of these decorations can really put a damper on your pet's day. Holiday lights can be potential fire hazards and the cords are shock hazards if chewed on. Keeping your tree in a secure place is very important as it can cause injury if it falls on a pet. Even choosing the right type of tree is something to be considered as some trees adorned with artificial snow have caused toxicity. Place glass ornaments higher on the tree to prevent pets from reaching them. Tinsel has been known to cause intestinal blockages, so we suggest avoiding this decoration in your home. Common holiday plants such as poinsettias, holly, and mistletoe can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, and dehydration if ingested. Sticking to artificial plants can be a safer alternative for your pets. Your pet may want in on the fun of opening presents with you, but keep in mind that wrapping paper and ribbon can also be hazardous if ingested, so be sure to toss them quickly once you are done opening presents.

     Baking and cooking can be another fun part of celebrating the holiday, but it is important to keep in mind that a lot of these foods can be harmful to our pets. Be sure to remind your house guests of rules for your pet. Things that your pet absolutely should not eat are:

• Chocolate
• Alcohol
• Onions
• Garlic
• Grapes and raisins
• Fatty and greasy food such as meat, gravy, meat fat
• Candies or gum containing xylitol
• Avocado
• Macadamia nuts
• Raw yeast and bread dough

     Safe alternatives for your pets so they can join in on the fun include raw carrots, green beans, bananas, and sweet potatoes.

     With the holidays often comes travel to join with loved ones or hosting house guests. Either way it is important to make sure your pet's microchip information is current. It is also crucial to provide your pet with a safe space for them to go when they feel anxious, stressed, or tired. Pheromones such as Adaptil and Feliway are a great way to provide comfort to your animals during this busy time and come in collars, sprays, and diffusers to best suit your particular need. You can also utilize doctor recommended/prescribed medications when warranted.

     We hope that you all enjoy a safe holiday with your loved ones and encourage you to look in to more ways to help your pets celebrate safely with you.