Holiday Safety Tips

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The holidays can be a fun time for all, including the family pet.  Although it is natural to include our pets in most everything we do, it is important to take special precautions during the holiday season to protect them from possible injury or even death.  There are many hazards to be aware of when it comes to enjoying a safe holiday with our pets.
  • Poinsettias, mistletoe, and holly are all potentially dangerous to pets.  Holly leaves are quite sharp on the ends and have a potential to cause injury to the mouth and throat if eaten by a pet.  Poinsettias can cause severe irritation to the system when ingested causing vomiting, inappetance, and listlessness.
  • Pine needles from the tree can also be a danger to pets--the pinpoint ends have the potential to scratch or cut the mouth and eyes of curious pets.
  • The Christmas tree can be very tempting, and every year many trees are scaled by the family cat.  Trees can also be easily knocked over, and many creative ways have been used to 'pet proof' the tree--from anchoring it to the ceiling with thin ropes, to using barricades or baby gates to block off the room or even around the tree to keep pets (and sometimes toddlers) at a safe distance.  Pets may also attempt to drink water from the tree stand, so be sure that it is well covered, and do not add anything to the water as a preservative for the tree--it could be toxic to your pet.
  • Tinsel is shiny and attractive to pets, but is easily ingested.   It does not digest in the system, and the strands tend to wrap around each other causing the possibility of an intestinal obstruction.  Vomiting, not eating, straining to stool, can all be signs of a problem.  If you have seen your pet eat tinsel, or suspect it, consult your veterinarian right away. 
  • Electrical cords are always dangerous, and every year pets are severely injured or even killed by biting into cords attached to seasonal lights.
  • Decorations have a lot of potential for problems.  Ornaments are usually fragile, and if broken can be sharp and easily cause cuts in the mouth or the toepads.  Ribbons and bows on packages are fun to play with, but if eaten can cause also be a cause of an intestinal obstruction.  Christmas tree lights and other decorative bulbs can get hot, potentially burning a curious nose.  Candles can also pose a threat for burns when pets get too close.
  • Food is usually a central part of any holiday celebration, and our pets tend to be included when it comes to sampling the seasonal delicacies.  If you must share with your pet from the holiday table, avoid all fatty meats and skin, no gravies, and no spicy foods.  Stick with items that have a lesser potential to cause digestive problems--mashed potatoes (no butter or gravy), a plain dinner roll, or the crust of your pumpkin pie can all be acceptable, in moderation. 
  • Chocolate has a substance that is toxic for pets--do not feed your pet goodies containing chocolate, and be cautious not to leave candy, cookies, or baking chocolate within your pet's reach.  Depending on the pet and the amount of chocolate ingested, symptoms might include vomiting, diarrhea, hyperactivity, panting, muscle tremors, seizures, and even death.  If you know that your pet has eaten chocolate, call your veterinarian for immediate advice.
  • Alcohol and caffeine should not be given to pets.  They have the potential to cause toxic effects leading to illness and even death.  These substances should always be kept safely away from all pets.

 

 

 

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