The holiday season is officially here, and for many of us, that means festive decorations, delicious food, and fun celebrations. It’s also a time when we want to include our furry companions in the festivities. But while the holidays are filled with joy, they can also present some unique risks for our pets. From tempting foods to decorations that pose a danger, keeping our pets safe during the holidays requires a little extra attention.
Here are some pawesome safety tips to help you ensure your pets enjoy the holidays just as much as you do — without any unintended surprises!
1. Stick to Your Pet’s Regular Diet
While it’s tempting to include your pet in the holiday meals, it’s important to stick to their regular food and treats. Fatty, sweet, and spicy foods can upset their stomachs and even cause more serious health issues. In particular, turkey and chicken bones can splinter and cause choking or injury to your pet’s digestive system.
A small piece of boneless, plain turkey is okay as an occasional treat, but it’s always safer to err on the side of caution and avoid any foods that could contain toxic spices, sugars, or ingredients. Be especially careful with foods that may be safe for humans but harmful to pets, such as onions, garlic, chocolate, and alcohol.
2. Keep Decorations Out of Reach
The holidays bring with them a lot of festive décor — but unfortunately, some of those shiny baubles and glittery lights can be dangerous to your furry friends. Here are a few key things to look out for:
- Electrical Wires & Batteries: Pets are naturally curious, and chewing on electrical wires can lead to dangerous electric shocks. Additionally, punctured batteries can cause burns to your pet’s mouth or esophagus. Keep wires and batteries well out of reach.
- Glass & Plastic Ornaments: Hanging ornaments or decorations that break easily can cause cuts or internal injuries if ingested. Avoid hanging fragile ornaments too low on the tree, and make sure any glass or plastic items are securely fastened.
3. Beware of Holiday Plants
While poinsettias, mistletoe, and holly may be part of your holiday décor, these plants can be toxic to pets if ingested. Mistletoe can cause gastrointestinal upset, while holly and poinsettias can lead to nausea, vomiting, and even more serious health issues. To be safe, keep all holiday plants out of your pet’s reach, or consider replacing them with faux alternatives.
4. Be Cautious With Your Christmas Tree
A Christmas tree can be a big draw for pets, but it comes with its own set of potential hazards. If you’re putting up a tree this year, here are a few safety tips:
Avoid Tinsel: Tinsel may look pretty, but if ingested, it can cause serious digestive issues such as vomiting, obstructions, and dehydration. Stick to other decorations like lights and non-toxic ornaments instead.
Secure the Tree: Make sure your tree is firmly anchored to prevent it from tipping over if your pet gets too close. A falling tree can cause injury to your pet or damage to your home.
Cover the Tree Water: The water in your tree stand can contain bacteria, which could make your pet sick if they drink it. Always keep the tree water covered or out of reach.
Keep Wrapped Presents Off the Floor: It’s tempting to let gifts pile up under the tree, but some presents — especially those with food or candy — can be irresistible to pets. Make sure to keep all wrapped treats off the ground.
5. Create a Quiet Space for Your Pet
The holiday season often means loud music, fireworks, and noisy celebrations — all of which can be overwhelming for pets. Many pets are sensitive to loud sounds, and they may become scared or anxious during large gatherings or fireworks displays.
Make sure to provide your pet with a safe, quiet space where they can retreat if they need some time away from the noise. A crate or quiet room with their bed, toys, and water can help them feel secure and relaxed.
6. Watch Out for Toxic Holiday Candles
Scented candles are a holiday favorite, but they can be dangerous for pets if knocked over or ingested. Always place candles on high, stable surfaces and never leave them unattended. If you’re concerned about your pet getting too close, opt for flameless, battery-operated candles.
7. Don’t Forget About Their Daily Needs
Finally, remember that your pets still have the same daily needs throughout the holiday season. While you may be caught up in the excitement, don’t forget to provide your pet with their regular exercise, playtime, and mental stimulation. They’ll appreciate the routine, and it’ll help keep them calm amidst the holiday chaos.
A Safe and Merry Pawliday Season!
The holidays should be a time of joy and celebration for everyone, including your furry friends. By taking some simple precautions, you can keep your pets safe and ensure they enjoy the festivities as much as you do. Whether you’re decking the halls or preparing for a holiday feast, a little extra attention to pet safety will go a long way in making this a pawfect season for everyone.
Wishing you and your pets a joyful, safe, and happy HOWLIDAY season!
The holiday season is officially here, and for many of us, that means festive decorations, delicious food, and fun celebrations. It’s also a time when we want to include our furry companions in the festivities. But while the holidays are filled with joy, they can also present some unique risks for our pets. From tempting foods to decorations that pose a danger, keeping our pets safe during the holidays requires a little extra attention.
Here are some pawesome safety tips to help you ensure your pets enjoy the holidays just as much as you do — without any unintended surprises!
1. Stick to Your Pet’s Regular Diet
While it’s tempting to include your pet in the holiday meals, it’s important to stick to their regular food and treats. Fatty, sweet, and spicy foods can upset their stomachs and even cause more serious health issues. In particular, turkey and chicken bones can splinter and cause choking or injury to your pet’s digestive system.
A small piece of boneless, plain turkey is okay as an occasional treat, but it’s always safer to err on the side of caution and avoid any foods that could contain toxic spices, sugars, or ingredients. Be especially careful with foods that may be safe for humans but harmful to pets, such as onions, garlic, chocolate, and alcohol.
2. Keep Decorations Out of Reach
The holidays bring with them a lot of festive décor — but unfortunately, some of those shiny baubles and glittery lights can be dangerous to your furry friends. Here are a few key things to look out for:
- Electrical Wires & Batteries: Pets are naturally curious, and chewing on electrical wires can lead to dangerous electric shocks. Additionally, punctured batteries can cause burns to your pet’s mouth or esophagus. Keep wires and batteries well out of reach.
- Glass & Plastic Ornaments: Hanging ornaments or decorations that break easily can cause cuts or internal injuries if ingested. Avoid hanging fragile ornaments too low on the tree, and make sure any glass or plastic items are securely fastened.
3. Beware of Holiday Plants
While poinsettias, mistletoe, and holly may be part of your holiday décor, these plants can be toxic to pets if ingested. Mistletoe can cause gastrointestinal upset, while holly and poinsettias can lead to nausea, vomiting, and even more serious health issues. To be safe, keep all holiday plants out of your pet’s reach, or consider replacing them with faux alternatives.
4. Be Cautious With Your Christmas Tree
A Christmas tree can be a big draw for pets, but it comes with its own set of potential hazards. If you’re putting up a tree this year, here are a few safety tips:
Avoid Tinsel: Tinsel may look pretty, but if ingested, it can cause serious digestive issues such as vomiting, obstructions, and dehydration. Stick to other decorations like lights and non-toxic ornaments instead.
Secure the Tree: Make sure your tree is firmly anchored to prevent it from tipping over if your pet gets too close. A falling tree can cause injury to your pet or damage to your home.
Cover the Tree Water: The water in your tree stand can contain bacteria, which could make your pet sick if they drink it. Always keep the tree water covered or out of reach.
Keep Wrapped Presents Off the Floor: It’s tempting to let gifts pile up under the tree, but some presents — especially those with food or candy — can be irresistible to pets. Make sure to keep all wrapped treats off the ground.
5. Create a Quiet Space for Your Pet
The holiday season often means loud music, fireworks, and noisy celebrations — all of which can be overwhelming for pets. Many pets are sensitive to loud sounds, and they may become scared or anxious during large gatherings or fireworks displays.
Make sure to provide your pet with a safe, quiet space where they can retreat if they need some time away from the noise. A crate or quiet room with their bed, toys, and water can help them feel secure and relaxed.
6. Watch Out for Toxic Holiday Candles
Scented candles are a holiday favorite, but they can be dangerous for pets if knocked over or ingested. Always place candles on high, stable surfaces and never leave them unattended. If you’re concerned about your pet getting too close, opt for flameless, battery-operated candles.
7. Don’t Forget About Their Daily Needs
Finally, remember that your pets still have the same daily needs throughout the holiday season. While you may be caught up in the excitement, don’t forget to provide your pet with their regular exercise, playtime, and mental stimulation. They’ll appreciate the routine, and it’ll help keep them calm amidst the holiday chaos.
A Safe and Merry Pawliday Season!
The holidays should be a time of joy and celebration for everyone, including your furry friends. By taking some simple precautions, you can keep your pets safe and ensure they enjoy the festivities as much as you do. Whether you’re decking the halls or preparing for a holiday feast, a little extra attention to pet safety will go a long way in making this a pawfect season for everyone.
Wishing you and your pets a joyful, safe, and happy HOWLIDAY season!
Comments