Holiday Pet Safety: Protecting Your Furry Friends
The holiday season is a magical time filled with joy, celebrations, and gatherings. As we decorate our homes, plan festive feasts, and exchange gifts, it’s essential to remember that our furry family members require some extra attention to ensure they have a safe and happy holiday too. In this blog, our team at Andover Animal Hospital will explore holiday pet safety tips.
1. Decorate with Care: Festive decorations can be appealing to pets but also pose various dangers. Keep ornaments, tinsel, and other small decorations out of your pet’s reach to prevent choking hazards or gastrointestinal issues. Consider using pet-friendly alternatives for your tree, such as unbreakable ornaments and non-toxic garlands.
2. Holiday Plants: Many holiday plants, such as poinsettias, holly, and mistletoe, can be toxic to pets. Make sure they are placed where your animals can’t access them, and promptly clean up any fallen leaves or berries.
3. Delicious Dangers: Holiday feasts are filled with delightful treats, but some human foods are harmful to pets. Avoid giving your furry friends chocolate, grapes, raisins, bones, and anything containing xylitol, a sweetener commonly found in sugar-free gum and other products.
4. Avoid Decorative Lighting: Decorative lights can be enticing for pets but can also lead to electrical shocks or other injuries. Keep cords and wires safely out of their reach.
5. Stress Reduction: Holiday guests and changes in routine can stress pets. If your pet becomes anxious during the holidays, consider using calming products or consulting with your veterinarian for advice.
6. Emergency Preparedness: Keep the contact information of a local 24-hour emergency veterinary clinic and an after-hours animal poison control hotline handy. Knowing where to turn in case of an emergency is crucial for your pet’s safety. Don’t forget to save our contact information!
The holidays are a time for sharing and love, and that includes your four-legged companions. By being aware of the potential hazards and taking precautions, you can ensure your pets enjoy the holiday season as much as you do. With a few simple steps, you can make sure that your holiday memories are filled with joy and laughter, not emergency vet visits.