Keeping pets safe during the holidays is crucial, as this festive season can bring about a range of hazards for our furry friends. Here’s a comprehensive guide to ensure your pets enjoy the holidays as much as you do.
Understanding Holiday Hazards for Pets
Dangerous Foods and Treats: The holidays are synonymous with special foods, but many of these can be harmful to pets. Here’s what to avoid:
- Chocolate and Caffeine: These contain theobromine and caffeine, toxic to dogs and cats.
- Xylitol: Often found in sugar-free treats, it can cause liver failure in dogs.
- Onions and Garlic: These can cause gastrointestinal upset and damage red blood cells.
- Grapes and Raisins: These can lead to kidney failure in dogs.
- Alcoholic Beverages: Even small amounts can be toxic.
- Rich, Fatty Foods: These can cause pancreatitis.
- Poultry Bones: These bones can splinter easily and cause a choking hazard.
Decorative Hazards: Decorations can be enticing for pets but dangerous if ingested.
- Tinsel and Ribbons: These can cause intestinal blockages if swallowed.
- Holiday Plants: Poinsettias, holly, and mistletoe are toxic to pets.
- Electrical Cords: Pets might chew them, risking electric shock.
- Unsafe pet toys and rawhide: Stores are filled with rawhide treats and toys for pets this time of year – but not all are safe or good for them. Do your research and shop at a reputable pet store.
A little prep work ahead of time will make your holidays a lot smoother for everyone involved. Here’s how to create a safe space for your pets:
Treat your pets like you would a toddler by creating a safe environment!
- Restrict Access: Use baby gates to keep pets away from certain areas.
- Cover Trash Cans: Ensure food scraps are out of reach.
- Keep Decorations Out of Reach: Place ornaments higher up on the tree – this is just as much for you! Dog tails are dangerous around glass ornaments, and what cat doesn’t love to bat at shiny objects?
Introducing Pets to New People: The holidays often mean guests, which can be stressful for pets.
- Gradual Introduction: Allow your pet to approach new people independently – if they are skittish, they aren’t ready for the party!
- Safe Space: Ensure your pet has a quiet place to retreat if overwhelmed.
- Inform Guests: Ask guests not to feed your pets or leave doors open – you want to avoid the great escape! Better safe than sorry – ensure your pets have ID Tags and are microchipped.
Helping pets cope with holiday stress. Pets can get stressed with the hustle and bustle of the holidays.
- Routine: Try to keep your pet’s routine as normal as possible.
- Quiet Time: Provide a quiet, comfortable space away from noise and guests.
- Exercise: Regular exercise can help manage stress. Even though you have a lot on your plate right now, don’t skip out on that walk with your pup!
The holidays should be a joyous time for everyone, including our pets! Keep your furry friends in mind when decorating your home and prepping for that delicious Thanksgiving meal. The less stressed your pets are, the more you will enjoy your time with family and friends. And remember – avoid giving them those table scraps, especially the turkey leg!
