Holiday Safety For Your Pets

Holiday Foods: Keep Dangerous Items Away

Sharing a bit of your holiday feast with your pet might feel like including them in the holiday cheer—who can resist those pleading eyes, right? But what seems like a kind gesture can lead to a world of trouble for their health. A slice of turkey here, a piece of pie there, and suddenly your furry friend could be facing a bellyache (or worse). Remember, the best gift you can give them is a safe, happy holiday without a trip to the emergency vet!

• Chocolate and Sweets: Chocolate, especially dark chocolate, and sugar-free candies containing xylitol are toxic to pets. Keep all sweets out of reach.
• Cooked Bones: Bones from your holiday roast may splinter and cause choking or internal injuries. Never give pets cooked bones.
• Alcohol and Caffeine: Both are harmful to pets, so ensure glasses and cups are placed out of reach.
• Rich or Spicy Foods: Fatty or heavily seasoned foods can upset your pet’s stomach or lead to pancreatitis. Stick to their regular diet and limit treats.

Create a Safe Space

• Quiet Retreat: With guests coming and going, your pet may feel overwhelmed. Set up a quiet, comfortable area where they can relax away from the commotion.
• Provide Identification: With doors opening frequently, pets may slip out unnoticed. Ensure your pet has updated ID tags and a microchip.

Watch Out for Holiday Hazards

• Candles and Fireplaces: Keep candles and fireplaces supervised or out of reach to prevent burns or accidents.
• Electrical Cords: Lights and other decorations often come with cords that pets might chew. Use cord protectors or keep them out of reach.

Be Mindful of Holiday Stress

The hustle and bustle of the holiday season can be overwhelming for pets. They may pick up on your stress or feel anxious with all the changes in their environment. Be attentive to their needs and watch for signs of stress, such as excessive barking, hiding, or unusual behavior. Providing extra affection, engaging them in calming activities, and keeping their routine consistent can help ease their nerves and keep them happy during the festivities.

• Stick to Routines: Try to maintain your pet’s regular feeding, exercise, and sleeping schedule to minimize stress.
• Supervise Interactions: If your pet isn’t used to children or large crowds, monitor their interactions and provide them with an escape route if needed.

Travel Safely

• Plan Ahead: If you’re traveling with your pet, ensure you pack all their essentials, including food, water, medications, and bedding.
• Use a Carrier or Harness: For car trips, keep your pet secure in a carrier or with a safety harness to avoid distractions and injuries.