Roonie Says: Keeping Your Pets Safe During the Holiday

Posted by westgoshen On December 16, 2019 at 10:48 am | Comments Closed

With the holidays approaching, there are several things to be aware of when it comes to your pet’s health and safety. First, it is important to keep your pet on a regular exercise and eating routine, despite schedule changes the holidays may bring. The ASPCA compiled some useful pet safety tips for the holiday season. Check them out below:

Decoration Dangers

  • Christmas Tree: Be sure to secure your tree firmly to the ground so that it cannot tip and become a falling danger to your pet. This also prevents your furry friend from ingesting the tree’s water, which sometimes contains pesticides. 
  • Avoid Mistletoe and Holly: Holly, when ingested, can cause pets to suffer nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Mistletoe can cause gastrointestinal upset and cardiovascular problems. Additionally, many varieties of lilies can cause kidney failure in cats if ingested.
  • Tinsel-less Town: Although cats find tinsel to be a fun toy,  it can block their digestive system when ingested. 
  • The Holiday Glow: Do not leave lit candles unattended as pets can knock them over and cause a fire hazard. Be sure to place candles on a high, secure surface.
  • Wired Up: Keep any lights and plastic or glass decorations away from your pets. Wires can cause shock and plastic or glass can damage your pet’s mouth or digestive tract.

Avoid Holiday Food Dangers

  • Skip the Sweets: Be sure to keep chocolate away from your pets – this includes keeping any trash cans out of reach.
  • Leave the Leftovers: Do not feed your pets your leftovers! This includes fatty, spicy, or no-no foods, like bones. Click here to learn what you should and shouldn’t feed your pet.
  • Careful with Cocktails: Keep all alcohol out of your pet’s reach. Ingesting alcohol can result in nausea or potential respiratory failure.
  • Selecting Special Treats: Fill your pet’s stocking with veterinarian-approved treats and toys. 

The holidays can mean more social gatherings, so your pet may get extra attention. Just like people, some pets enjoy this extra attention and others do not. A shy pet may benefit from time away from the holiday festivities, while an excited one can benefit from exercise beforehand. For more pet safety tips check out the ASPCA’s Holiday Infographic here.  Have a safe and happy holiday with your pet!

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