Holiday Safety Tips for Pet Owners

The holiday season is a time of joy for you, your loved ones, and your pets. However, it also brings unique risks to your pet’s health. With some awareness and a few simple precautions, you can ensure a festive season that’s safe and cheerful for everyone.

Festive Foods and Treats

Holiday meals often include rich, sugary dishes that aren’t suitable for pets. Ingredients like bones, onions, and raisins can be hazardous to their health. Keep food out of reach, ensure trash cans are secure, and keep pets away from the kitchen and dining area.

Remember, many holiday treats like chocolate and candy canes are toxic to pets. Instead, offer your furry friend a safe alternative like a carrot, while saving the cookies for Santa.

Christmas Tree Safety

Christmas trees can pose various dangers. Pine needles from real trees can harm your pet’s digestive system if ingested, so regular sweeping or vacuuming is essential. To prevent accidents, secure your tree to the wall or a corner, especially if you have a curious cat.

Decorations also require careful consideration. Choose ornaments too large to swallow, avoid glass or tinsel, and keep wrapped gifts with ribbons and bows out of reach. These can be mistaken for toys and pose serious risks if chewed or ingested.

And while gifting a pet for Christmas may seem magical, it’s a long-term commitment best left to personal decision-making.

Pet-Friendly Holiday Décor

Holiday decorations can be hazardous to pets. Keep candles in high, inaccessible areas and never leave them unattended. Unplug Christmas lights when not in use, and secure cords to prevent chewing, which can cause burns or electric shocks.

Seasonal plants like holly, mistletoe, poinsettias, and some lilies are toxic to pets. If you can’t guarantee they’ll stay out of reach, consider using artificial alternatives to keep everyone safe.

Holiday Travel and Guests

The holiday season often means house guests and travel. Introduce pets gradually to visitors and provide a quiet, safe space for them to retreat. Be vigilant about keeping doors closed to prevent escapes, and ensure your pet’s ID tags and microchip information are up-to-date.

If you’re traveling, never leave your pet alone in a cold car and bring essential supplies, including medical records. Alternatively, you can use a reputable boarding facility or arrange for someone to care for them at home.

By taking these precautions, you can enjoy a safe and happy holiday season for your whole family—furry members included. Warm wishes from our animal hospital to you and your pets!