10 Ways to Keep Your Pets Safe During the Holiday Season

The holiday season is a time of joy and celebration, but it also brings unique challenges for pet owners. Home decor such as Christmas trees, flowers and decorations may be unsafe for pets which is why you need to know how to keep your pets safe during the holidays. Here are ten things you might want to consider ensuring your furry friends stay safe and happy during the festivities.

1. Safeguard Against Toxic Foods

Many festive foods are harmful to pets. Chocolate contains theobromine, which is poisonous to dogs. Grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, and alcohol are also toxic to both dogs and cats. Even small amounts can cause serious health issues. Always keep such foods out of reach, and inform guests not to feed your pets any table scraps.

2. Create a Pet-Friendly Environment for Guests

Holiday gatherings can be overwhelming for pets. Ensure they have a quiet, comfortable space to retreat to if they feel stressed. Inform your guests about your pets, especially if any visitors have allergies or fears. Supervise interactions between pets and guests, and be cautious when doors are opened to prevent accidental escapes.

3. Secure Your Christmas Tree

Christmas trees can be enticing to pets, especially cats who may see them as climbing opportunities. Secure your tree to prevent it from toppling over. Avoid using tinsel, as ingestion can lead to digestive blockages. Keep fragile ornaments higher up and consider using pet-friendly decorations. When choosing Christmas trees, dog friendly varieties such as Nordmann Fir or Fraser Fir, known for their softer needles and lower shedding, are safer. Generally, Fir, spruce, and pine trees are non-toxic and safe for pets.

4. Be Cautious with Holiday Plants

Certain holiday plants like poinsettias, mistletoe, holly, and amaryllis are toxic to pets. Ingestion can cause symptoms ranging from mild stomach upset to severe poisoning. Keep these plants out of reach or opt for pet-safe alternatives to ensure your furry friends remain healthy.

5. Monitor Decorations and Wrapping Materials

Ribbons, strings, and small decorative items can be hazardous if ingested by pets, leading to choking or intestinal blockages. After opening gifts, promptly dispose of wrapping materials. Ensure that decorations are securely fastened and out of reach to prevent accidents.

6. Prevent Access to Electrical Cords

Holiday lights mean more electrical cords, which can be tempting for pets to chew on, risking electric shocks. Secure cords out of reach or use protective coverings. Unplug decorations when you’re not home to minimize risks.

7. Be Mindful of Candles and Open Flames

Curious pets can easily knock over candles, leading to burns or fires. Opt for flameless LED candles as a safer alternative. If you use traditional candles, place them in areas inaccessible to pets and never leave them unattended.

8. Protect Pets from Cold Weather Hazards

Winter brings additional risks like antifreeze poisoning, as it contains ethylene glycol, which is highly toxic. Ensure antifreeze is stored securely and clean up any spills immediately. After walks, check your dog’s paws for signs of irritation from ice or salt, and rinse them if necessary.

9. Maintain Regular Routines

The holiday hustle can disrupt your pet’s routine, leading to stress. Try to keep feeding, exercise, and playtimes consistent. Providing familiar activities helps your pet feel secure amidst the holiday chaos. You can also maintain a safe space for your pet such as a closed room where they can enjoy their regular activities and toys.

10. Ensure Proper Identification

With guests coming and going, there’s an increased risk of pets slipping out. Ensure your pets have proper identification, such as up-to-date ID tags and microchips, to increase the chances of a safe return if they get lost. By following these guidelines, you can help ensure a safe and joyous holiday season for both your family and your beloved pets.