Christmas is around the corner, and if you’re like most people, you have already started your holiday decorating for Christmas. With any holiday, it’s important to consider your pets as you deck the rooms this Christmas! Let’s talk about how you can prepare your home with your furry friends in mind to keep them safe and your holiday a little less stressful.
Christmas Tree
Locate a safe place for your Christmas tree. Preferably a corner and a place where you’re able to secure it in the event the cat should climb up it or the dog jump on it. A child’s gate that can block off access to the tree works well. If a gate is unable to be used, try hanging bells on the bottom limbs of the tree to warn you of a possible disaster. If you plan to have a real tree consider tending to the pine needles on a regular basis as they can be harmful to your pets if ingested.
Plants
As you deck the house, it’s not uncommon to use plants such as holly, and poinsettias around the home. These are all toxic to a cat and dog. Be mindful of where you place these around your home. Have them up high enough where the pets can’t reach them to knock over or eat. While they may be beautiful, they can also be extremely harmful to your pets.
Food
List of some toxic or unsafe foods to pets:
- Chocolate
- Coffee grounds, beans & tea
- Raisins & grapes
- Cooked Bones
- Candy and chewing gum
- some spices like Nutmeg
Table
During Christmas, most families gather around the kitchen table. Let your guests know that table scraps and fatty foods are forbidden for your pets and remind them before sitting down to eat to ensure your pets are safe.
Gifts
Be mindful of the fact your pooch has a strong sense of smell and can smell through the wrapping paper. If you plan on wrapping any gifts that are chocolate, candles, perfume, or cologne, store them away from the Christmas tree where your pets can’t let their nosiness get the best of them. Bring the gifts out when it’s time to open them so that your pets are safe. The last thing you want to do is ruin Christmas with an emergency run to the vet because of a nosey pet! Christmas is a time for love, laughter, fun, and memories; please be mindful of your pets and how you can keep them safe as you celebrate this holiday season. A simple rule of thumb is if it isn’t safe for a toddler, it isn’t safe for your pet.
