Holiday Pet Tips
The Holiday Season is finally upon us. While we are getting super excited for the festivities and visits from friends & family, we have to remember our other family members - our pets!
This time of year can be stressful for our fur-children. Doorbell is ringing, we have guests over, the normal routine is deviated. Not to mention all of the dangers that are present at this time of year!
My family has two dogs, one who is anxiety-stricken and one who is more laid-back. I know all too well how this time of year goes. We must keep a special eye on them, as well as our human kids, during this time of year...
But don't fret - I have some awesome tips and advice that I've personally used to help our pets adapt to the holiday changes!
Oh, Christmas Tree... Oh, Christmas Tree : Whether your family goes for the real tree or an artificial one, be sure to securely anchor your Christmas tree so it doesn't tip and fall, causing possible injury to your pet. This will also prevent the tree water—which may contain fertilizers that can cause stomach upset—from spilling. Stagnant tree water is a breeding ground for bacteria and if your pet ingests some of that water, it can cause tummy issues and diarrhea.
The Holiday Glow : Obviously, don't leave lit candles somewhere where your pet can accidentally knock them over. Be sure that your Christmas lights aren't hanging low-enough to where your kitten or cat may be able to reach them & get tangled. Not to mention the possibility of an electrical shock!
A Room of Their Own : If you have an unsociable pet like I do, prepare a little spot of their own so they can escape the commotion and stress. Turn on the TV in the bedroom, make them a bed, give them a treat or their favorite toy and be sure to check on them regularly. This also helps to keep them from darting out of the door when family & friends arrive. Don't forget to provide them with fresh water and a potty-break throughout the day!
New Year's Noise : As you bring in the new year, please keep in mind that strings of thrown confetti can get lodged in a cat's intestines, if ingested, perhaps necessitating surgery. Noisy poppers can terrify pets and cause possible damage to sensitive ears. Remember, many pets are scared of fireworks, so be sure to secure them in a safe, escape-proof area as midnight approaches. I am always sure to drown-out the noise with the radio or TV turned on.
Holiday Hazards & Poisons : There are several things, as a pet parent, that you need to keep an eye out for. Here's a list of things that you need to either keep away from your pets or don't decorate with completely (decorating is not as important as your pet's life)...
Batteries -- in toys, greeting cards, electronic devices, flame-less candles, and remote controls can cause serious injury if pets (or humans) swallow them. Internal burns can occur in a very short time.
Tinsel, ribbons, ornaments, and Christmas tree needles -- Your pet(s) can choke and can be cut by broken ornaments. Keep trees and their decorations high up or blocked off. Poinsettia -- This is not a deadly plant, however, the sap from poinsettia plants can be very irritating. Pets who chew on poinsettia can develop skin rashes and mouth irritation. If they swallow the plant, they could have stomach upset and discomfort.
Holly leaves -- are prickly and can cause injury if a pet tries to eat them. Holly berries can be poisonous; they easily dry up and fall onto the floor where pets (and children) can find them.
Alcoholic beverages and chocolate -- This one should be obvious also, but just as a reminder - your pet(s) can become very sick or even die if they consume some foods and drinks. Empty your glasses and store left-overs safely so pets won’t consume the drinks or develop food poisoning. Watch for bones and be sure to take out the garbage as soon as everyone is done eating to ensure your pet(s) don't get into it!
Veterinary Care : If an emergency situation occurs with your pet(s) during this time of year, do not hesitate on contacting your veterinarian! Another thing to consider - most veterinary clinics are closed for the holidays so be sure to plan ahead of time and find one that is open during the holidays -- just in case!
Exercise : How can your pet settle down if he/she has built-up energy that is just driving them crazy?! Be sure to take your dog for a walk or run around the backyard with them to release some of that energy before your guests arrive. If you are leaving town for the holidays, be sure your pet-sitter understands the importance of exercise and how to safely provide some exercise fun!
I truly hope everyone has a safe, fun, and memorable holiday season! But always remember, our pet's depend on us for literally EVERY need they have. Pay attention to them, especially during this time of year!
ANIMAL POISON CONTROL: I'm providing a list of Pet Poison Control Hotlines - I highly suggest you keep this list as a reference because you never know when you may need assistance and advice!
ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center - 1-888-426-4435 [24/7] ($65 consultation fee credited to your credit card - follow-up calls are free)
The Pet Poison Helpline - 1-800-213-6680 [24/7] ($39 consultation fee with free follow-up calls)
National Animal Poison Control Center - 1-800-548-2423 ($30 consultation fee)
I am not a veterinarian, nor do I intend on this information to be a substitute for professional veterinary care. Please contact your veterinarian right away if you suspect any issues with your pets!
