Protecting Your Pet Through The Holidays.

I don’t know about you, but my pets are just like my children, and I have always done everything possible to protect my daughter from those things that could harm her – even those things that you might think would be relatively harmless.

The holidays are fast approaching, and busy as we all are during these times, there are things we need to be aware of as possible dangers that we might not think about. 

Here are some things to look out for during the busy season:

Candles:  Pets are naturally curious, we all know that, and are constantly saying “no” and “leave it” and trying to keep them away from things we don’t want them getting in their mouths.  The bright light of a candle may attract them, and they could burn themselves, or even knock them over and start a fire, putting everyone in danger.  Try to make certain you keep candles as much out of the dog or cat’s reach as you would your child’s.

Bones:  Small bones are very different from the large bones you buy at the pet store. And they are very different from giving your dog a large, uncooked bone.  They will splinter into small pieces very easily and can cause serious internal damage to your fur baby. NEVER give them to your pet. 

Holiday Plants:  Christmas rose, Mistletoe, Holly and Lilies are all highly toxic to dogs and cats. Don’t let your pet get hold of them. 

Styrofoam, tinsel, decoration hooks, angel hair (spun glass): These can all choke your pets if they swallow them, or cause serious, even fatal, internal damage.

Ornaments:   Mot ornaments are made up of small pieces or glass, all of which can cause serious injury internally, or choke your pet.  It may be cute to watch the puppy or kitten chase the glass ornament around the room, but if it gets broken, you could have more than just a bit of glass to clean up on your hands.

Hot containers:  We tell our small children “that’s hot don’t touch it” and most of the time, we can get their attention. Your pup doesn’t understand what that means.  Rather than take the chance, make certain that hot food containers are out of Fido’s reach.

Christmas Tree Water:  Stagnant water or water you’ve used that contains preservatives could result in a seriously bad tummy ache for your pet.

Fire Salts:    These contain chemicals that are harmful to pets.

Balloons and confetti:    These could cause intestinal obstructions and choking hazards.

In all, just be sure to use your common sense, and remember your fur babies during the holidays!