The holidays are in full swing. Here are four tips to help keep your pet safe and happy this season.
1. SAY “NO” TO TINSEL
There is no doubt that cats love things that twinkle and shine and that are easy to play with and move. Tinsel is all of those things. Though it may add a little something to your holiday decorations around the home, it can be very dangerous for your pets. If ingested, it could cause vomiting, dehydration, and an obstructed digestive tract. This year, just say “NO” to the tinsel and save yourself and your pet a lot of hassle.
Other decorations to avoid altogether include mistletoe, holly berries, and lit candles. It is also a good idea to place strands of twinkling lights in places where pets cannot get to them.
2. SECURE AND SAFEGUARD YOUR CHRISTMAS TREE!
The Christmas tree seems to be a popular staple of holiday decorating in many homes. However, your tree may not be pet friendly. Many pets are curious and putting up a new tree may bring out their inner super detective. Larger dogs may jump up on the tree to get a closer look at your gingerbread ornament or your cat may think that the tree is his or her new sanctuary. Make sure to secure your tree so that it doesn’t fall. A tree falling on your fur family member could cause bodily injury. Broken ornaments may cause cuts or scrapes. If broken pieces are ingested, it could also cause internal injuries.
If you are a “real” tree kind of person, make sure that the water for your tree is not accessible to your pets. Sometimes sprays and other toxic solutions or fertilizers are added to trees to keep them fresher for a longer period of time. The ingestion of such toxic water could create issues for your pet.
3. KEEP A CLOSE EYE ON YOUR FOOD
If you have been a pet owner for long, then you understand the importance of feeding your pet the right kind of food and the effects some human food can have on them. However, some pets crave just one bite off of your chicken leg and can be very good at grabbing a bite off our plate when you get distracted. Make sure there is a lid on your trashcan, never leave your food unattended, and if you have a dog, then try placing items more towards the center of tables and counters so that they cannot be easily obtained.
Try treating your pet with Kong toys filled with healthy and safe snacks for them to enjoy.
4. CREATE A SAFE SPACE DURING GATHERINGS
Holidays can be tough on some pets due to the amount of new people coming in and out of your home. If you are throwing a party, create a safe spot in another room. Make sure to have fresh water and food. If you are throwing a New Year’s party, remember that many animals, especially dogs, do not like the confetti poppers or the fireworks. If fireworks are a must, then make sure that your pet is in an escape proof and safe area of the home.
These are just a few tips to help you and your pet get through the holiday season. However, the best present you can give your furry friend this year is a little TLC and attention.
Have a safe and happy holiday season! The Vet Clinic, Inc.