Decorate with Care
Twinkling lights and shiny ornaments make the holidays feel magical, but they can pose risks to your pets. Secure your Christmas tree to prevent accidents, especially if you have playful cats or energetic dogs. Keep lights, wires, and ornaments out of reach to avoid electric shocks, chewing, or accidental swallowing. Seasonal plants like poinsettias, holly, mistletoe, and lilies can be toxic to pets if ingested, so consider using artificial alternatives. Don’t forget to keep ribbons, bows, and small toys safely out of reach, as these can also be dangerous if swallowed.
Avoid Table Scraps
The holiday table may be tempting for pets, but many seasonal treats can be dangerous. Foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, and garlic are harmful to dogs and cats, and these ingredients often find their way into holiday dishes. Before slipping Fido a treat, double-check the ingredients to ensure it’s safe. Pay special attention to baked goods containing xylitol, a sugar substitute that’s highly toxic to dogs and can harm cats in high doses. Xylitol—also labeled as wood sugar, birch sugar, or birch bark extract—is found in products like sugar-free gum, candy, mints, baked goods, toothpaste, and even some vitamins. If your pet does ingest something they shouldn’t, contact your veterinarian or a pet poison control hotline immediately. Keep emergency contact numbers handy throughout the holidays, just in case. By sticking to pet-safe treats and keeping harmful foods out of reach, you can keep your furry friends safe and healthy this season!
Create a Pet Friendly Space
The holiday season isn’t just filled with extra hazards for pets—it can also be an overwhelming time for them. With more people coming and going, louder environments, and changes to your regular routine, pets can feel stressed or unsettled. Create a quiet, cozy space where they can retreat when things get overwhelming. Include their bed, favorite toys, and fresh water to make it as comforting as possible. If the noise level is high, a sound machine or calming music can help drown out the chaos. Taking breaks to check in with your pet and sticking to their feeding and exercise schedule as much as possible can also help reduce stress and keep them feeling secure.
Prepare for Emergencies
No matter how cautious you are, pets can still get into trouble, especially during the holidays. It’s smart to have a plan in place for unexpected situations. Keep the phone number and address of your local emergency vet easily accessible, and make sure you have a pet first-aid kit on hand. Include basics like bandages, pet-safe antiseptic, and any medications your pet regularly takes. Staying up to date on their wellness exams and vaccinations can also help you avoid bigger issues. Keep an extra-close eye on your pets during this busy season to catch potential problems before they become emergencies.
Celebrate Safely with Your Pets
The holidays are meant to be enjoyed by the whole family, including your pets. By taking a few extra precautions, you can ensure your furry friends stay safe, happy, and healthy through the season’s festivities. For more pet care tips or to schedule boarding, daycare, or grooming services for your pet, contact All Kreatures Pet Care. We’re here to help make your holidays stress-free for you and your pets!