4 Tips for Pet Safety Over the Holidays

Pet Safety Over the Holidays

The holidays are a festive but chaotic time. Accidents with pets are more likely to happen during this time of year because of the abundance of cooking and decorations. Here are 4 tips for pet safety over the holidays.

Keep These Foods Away From Pets

The holidays are a time for cooking elaborate feasts and eating special foods. With platters of appetizers left on tables and generally more food around than usual, it is common for pets to eat food that they shouldn’t during the holidays. Keep all food on high enough surfaces so that it is out of the reach of your pets. Be especially careful that dogs and cats do not eat these foods in particular:

• Chocolate
• Cooked bones
• Onions
• Grapes and raisins
• Coffee
• Citrus
• Fruit pits
• Alcohol

Pet Safety and the Holiday Tree

The needles on a fir tree could cause digestive complications if eaten. They could puncture the intestinal lining or cause an obstruction. Keep pets away from the holiday tree. One option is to spray a bitter apple spray on the tree, which has a taste that animals hate. Another solution is to place a fenced pen around the tree to keep pets from eating the needles, drinking the water, and knocking the tree over.

Holiday Decorations to Keep Away From Pets

Many types of plants related to the holidays are toxic for pets to eat. Poinsettia, mistletoe, and holly can all cause irritation and illness if ingested. If you love to decorate with holiday plants, use Christmas cactus instead, which is non-toxic. Pets and candles can also be a dangerous combination. Both cats and dogs can easily knock over a lit candle and start a fire. Battery-powered candles are safer in homes with pets.

Pet Safety Over the Holidays: In Case of Emergency

At any time of year, it is important to be prepared for any type of emergency. Be familiar with the closest 24-hour emergency vet clinic and save their number in your phone’s directory. Check what your regular vet’s holiday hours are, so you can act quickly in case of an emergency.

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