The holiday season is officially here! That means delicious food, ornaments, guests, decorations and many more things that can get your furry family members into trouble. Check out these six tips to keep your pets safe this season.
Seasonal Plants Can Be Harmful
Did you know that poinsettias, holly, and mistletoe are all potentially poisonous to dogs and cats?
If you choose to decorate your home with these traditional holiday plants, be sure to keep them in a place that you can easily monitor and that your pet cannot easily reach.
Don’t Feed Them Leftovers
We know that you like to think of your pets as a family; however, they should not eat the same foods that you do. Fatty leftovers (such as grease or drippings) can cause upset stomachs, diarrhea or vomiting.
Also, don’t give them the bones from your holiday bird, as they can cause internal injury once ingested.
Chocolate Is Toxic
While making your holiday baked goods and candies, keep the sweets – but especially the chocolate – away from your pets. If ingested, chocolate can be lethal. If your pet somehow eats any, call a veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center National Hotline immediately at 888-426-4435.
Noisemakers Can Be Scary
A pet’s ears are much more sensitive to loud sounds than a human’s. Fireworks, horns, and bells can be terrifying to a pet. Be sure to keep your animals in the house and in a place that they feel safe from the noises. You can also check with your veterinarian about sedatives to assist with an overly-anxious pet.
Keep Your Pets Safe and Comfortable While Traveling
Are you taking your pets with you on your holiday travels to see family and friends? Make sure that you have an up-to-date ID tag on your furry friend, just in case they escape. Also, make sure that you bring along things that they love – their bed, toys, and favorite treats.
This will help them relax and be more comfortable in a new place. If you choose to not take them with you, make sure that you have someone reliable looking after them that agrees to not only provide food and water but to also give them a little TLC while you’re away!
Keep Electrical Cords Hidden
To prevent accidental electrocution, conceal all exposed wires with tape or plastic coverings. This includes indoors and outdoors.
The holiday season is a wonderful, but stressful, time of year. Traveling, decorating, cooking and entertaining can all be hard on you and your pets. Be sure to take the time to show your pets that you love them and monitor them for any unusual behavior. Do you have any tips that you would add to this list? Share them with us!
Source: Halo Pets