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December 22nd, 2008 admin Leave a comment Go to comments

Decoration Pet

Holiday Safety for Pets

Holiday Safety For Pets

While holiday celebrations are a time of great fun, popular foods and decorations that make the holidays so enjoyable can also be dangerous to animals. Responsible pet owners need to be aware of these dangers and plan carefully to avoid potential hazards so the holidays remain a happy time of year (rather than a time for an emergency visit to a vet)!

Dangerous Holiday Foods

Unfortunately, many traditional holiday foods we love the most actually pose a threat to pets. Rich, fatty foods like gravy or grease can cause problems ranging from upset stomachs to pancreatitis. Alcohol, too, should be kept away from animals as it can cause serious intoxication. Unfortunately, many of the holiday drinks that contain alcohol, such as eggnog, produce sweet aromas that draw pets. So try to pick up and rinse stray cups quickly during holiday gatherings to avoid any problems.

Chocolate, coffee and tea all contain a compound called xanthine that is dangerous and toxic to animals. Chocolate is especially a problem because pets love its flavor. Unsweetened baking chocolate and dark chocolate are the worst culprits; but all chocolate, fudge and other candy should be placed out of a pet's reach.

Many people think bones are good for pets. It may come as a surprise, however, that not all bones are pet friendly. Bones from fish, meat or poultry can cause problems if swallowed. Be sure to keep bones, other than those specifically made for dogs, away from pets. Rawhides and certain toys, as well as hardened, sterilized bones are much safer alternatives.

Poisonous Plants

Some seasonal holiday plants can also be harmful to pets. Never let a pet chew or eat holly, mistletoe, poinsettias or hibiscus plants. If you decide to brighten up your home with these items, make sure to place these plants well out of a pet's reach, or opt for imitation holiday plants.

Christmas Trees

While Christmas trees aren't poisonous, they do create a whole other set of hazards for curious animals. First off, place trees in a stable stand and secure them to a window or wall. Pet owners may also want to think about using a specially designed Scat Mat, available at DrsFosterSmith.com, to keep pets away from trees.

We all like making our homes more festive for the holidays. We enjoy the green foliage and colorful flowers of plants. Unfortunately, many of the plants we have in our homes during the holidays can be poisonous to pets. NEVER let your pet chew or eat any of these holiday plants: Holly, Mistletoe, Poinsettias, Hibiscus.

So when you brighten up your home, please place these plants well out of your pet's reach, or use imitation holiday plants.

Tree ornaments are another common threat to pets. Shiny, metallic tinsel is almost irresistible to animals. When eaten, the strips can cause blockages in the digestive system, often requiring surgery to remove. So think about leaving tinsel off the tree altogether. Small or breakable ornaments can also be swallowed and cause tummy problems, so place them higher up on a tree and leave the larger, less intriguing ornaments for placement near the bottom. Some people also like decorating trees with foods like gingerbread, popcorn and candy canes. But for pet owners, this is just asking for problems.

Gifts Under the Tree

What sits beneath the tree should be of equal concern to pet owners. It's not uncommon for electrical cords to be viewed as chewable by animals. The results can be a burned mouth, electrical shock, or even electrocution. On the market is a liquid that can be sprayed on cords to make them less appealing, but pet owners should always unplug decorative lights when they're not there to supervise pets around a Christmas tree.

Gifts, too, should be made "pet proof" before being placed under a tree. Make sure to remove ribbons or bows from presents or place them out of reach, as a pet could swallow those items and end up with an intestinal obstruction requiring surgery to correct. Also be aware that batteries for toys or other gifts can be toxic and cause intestinal obstruction in animals. It is best to keep batteries in a safe place until they are ready to be used.

And finally, when choosing holiday gifts for pets, purchase safe items with no small pieces that could come off and be swallowed. Also remember that healthy holiday treats are best, and administer those treats in moderation.

The holidays can be a time of great fun and excitement for everyone. With a little planning and by following these precautions it can be a safe and fun time for your pet as well.

About the Author

Brent Goodman holds degrees in English from Ripon College, a Masters of Fine Arts from Purdue University, and has extensive experience in research communications and educational publishing across various fields of study. He is currently the Senior Copywriter at Drs. Foster & Smith Pet Supplies, the nation's leading online and catalog pet supplier.