Celebrating a Pet-Safe Holiday Season: Potential Dangers and Precautions

Danger	Precaution
1. Decorations Delights: Twinkling lights, shiny ornaments, and glittering tinsel can result in broken decorations and potential harm if pets, especially cats, swat or climb. Ingestion of tinsel can lead to intestinal blockages.	Opt for pet-friendly decorations, such as non-breakable ornaments and soft, plush stockings. Secure decorations out of reach or use pet gates to create designated pet-free zones. Avoid tinsel altogether.
2. Oh Christmas Tree: Curious pets are attracted to the tree. The tree water may contain additives, and the needles can cause stomach upset if ingested.	Cover the tree stand to prevent access to the water. Anchor the tree securely to prevent it from toppling over. Vacuum regularly to keep fallen needles at bay.
3. Tempting Treats: Holiday treats like chocolate and festive baked goods are not pet-friendly. Chocolate, in particular, can be toxic to dogs, and certain spices can upset their stomachs.	Keep all sweets and treats out of reach. Inform guests about the importance of not sharing human food with pets. Consider providing pet-safe treats.
4. Gift Wrapping Woes: Ribbons, bows, and wrapping paper can pose choking hazards or lead to intestinal blockages if ingested by pets during unwrapping.	Keep gift-wrapping materials stored away when not in use. Supervise pets during present unwrapping. Dispose of wrapping paper and packaging promptly.
5. Silent Night: The hustle and bustle of holiday celebrations, including strangers, loud noises, and changes in routine, can cause stress and anxiety in pets.	Create a quiet and safe space for your pets to retreat to. Explore the use of pheromone diffusers or calming sprays to alleviate anxiety. If your pet experiences heightened anxiety, contact the veterinary team, as they are equipped to offer anxiety medications. Ensure that guests are aware of your pet’s boundaries and sensitivities.

Danger

Precaution

1. Decorations Delights: Twinkling lights, shiny ornaments, and glittering tinsel can result in broken decorations and potential harm if pets, especially cats, swat or climb. Ingestion of tinsel can lead to intestinal blockages.

Opt for pet-friendly decorations, such as non-breakable ornaments and soft, plush stockings. Secure decorations out of reach or use pet gates to create designated pet-free zones. Avoid tinsel altogether.

2. Oh Christmas Tree: Curious pets are attracted to the tree. The tree water may contain additives, and the needles can cause stomach upset if ingested.

Cover the tree stand to prevent access to the water. Anchor the tree securely to prevent it from toppling over. Vacuum regularly to keep fallen needles at bay.

3. Tempting Treats: Holiday treats like chocolate and festive baked goods are not pet-friendly. Chocolate, in particular, can be toxic to dogs, and certain spices can upset their stomachs.

Keep all sweets and treats out of reach. Inform guests about the importance of not sharing human food with pets. Consider providing pet-safe treats.

4. Gift Wrapping Woes: Ribbons, bows, and wrapping paper can pose choking hazards or lead to intestinal blockages if ingested by pets during unwrapping.

Keep gift-wrapping materials stored away when not in use. Supervise pets during present unwrapping. Dispose of wrapping paper and packaging promptly.

5. Silent Night: The hustle and bustle of holiday celebrations, including strangers, loud noises, and changes in routine, can cause stress and anxiety in pets.

Create a quiet and safe space for your pets to retreat to. Explore the use of pheromone diffusers or calming sprays to alleviate anxiety. If your pet experiences heightened anxiety, contact the veterinary team, as they are equipped to offer anxiety medications. Ensure that guests are aware of your pet’s boundaries and sensitivities.