7 Holiday Pet Hazards: How to Keep Your Pets Safe
Time to deck your halls, feast on seasonal fare, and gear up for that big holiday party. But beware: What's a celebration for you can be downright hazardous for the family dog or cat. From dangling decorations and poisonous poinsettias to toxic table scraps, protect your furry pals from these holiday perils.
1. The tree. Does your cat climb the tree or your dog swipe gingerbread ornaments off low-hanging branches? If so, hang fresh garlands and wreaths well above paw's reach for an equally festive and safer alternative. If you do have a tree, secure it on a wide, tip-proof base, or anchor it to the wall with a guy wire. And cover the tree stand to prevent pets from lapping up the potentially toxic water inside.
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2. Ornaments. Keep all ornaments (especially hooks, glass, and tinsel) out of snout's reach. Ingesting these (not to mention pine needles) can block or even rupture a pet's intestines.
3. Holiday plants. We're talking about highly toxic lilies, ivy, holly (especially the berries), and mistletoe, to name a few. Many are poisonous - even fatal -- to dogs and cats. Poinsettias and potpourris are less toxic but can still cause severe illness. Think your pet won't nibble on them? Why take the chance? Consider using silk plants to deck your halls. You'll protect your pet and be able to reuse the decorations next year.
4. Leftovers. Don't share table scraps with your dog or cat, and store leftovers promptly. Onions, grapes, raisins, alcohol, chocolate, and cooked bones are among the potentially fatal treats. While you're at it, dog-proof your trash to keep Fido away from bones, gristle, and au jus-soaked rump roast strings.
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5. Blinking lights. Curious critters may be tempted to chew on tree lights, so cover the cords with thick plastic tubing. Also keep candles well out of tail-tipping, whisker-singeing reach.
6. Your guests. A houseful of revelers -- or carolers at the door -- can frighten even mellowest dog or cat into hiding or, worse, out the front door as guests come and go. Put your pet in a quiet room, and post a polite "do not disturb" sign on the door.
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7. Pet toys. Choose wisely when stuffing your dog or cat's stocking. Opt for toys without parts that can pull off and choke a pet. Always supervise playtime with string or yarn, or toys that can be chewed to pieces.
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