Pet-Friendly Holiday Tips
Pet owners know, usually from unfortunate experiences, that pet-proofing is a year-round challenge. The practice of removing items from a pet’s environment that have potential to impact health and safety. Pet-proofing is as necessary as the seasons change.
The holidays present some highly specific risks to pets. From toxic foods to escape hazards, poisonous plants to stress or anxiety, pet-proofing can be a daily battle this time of year. Our pet friendly holiday tips aim to keep your pet out of harm’s way so that you can make special memories together.
Finding a Balance
Many pet owners naturally question how to approach holiday pet safety. For some, the answer lies in keeping a pet cordoned off from any possible holiday hazards. For others, the process involves a delicate balance to include a pet in family gatherings or holiday events while prioritizing their absolute health and safety.
It’s not always easy or straightforward, but holiday pet safety strategies are essential to their well-being (and your peace of mind). Since veterinary emergencies spike this time of year, we offer some ways to pet-proof your home.
The Tree and Other Greens
Due to some fairly obvious reasons, pet owners may decide that an artificial tree is the best choice for their pet. Either way, ensure pet safety in these ways:
- Secure the tree to a back wall or corner in case your pet likes to jump or climb it. You could also hook the top of the tree to the ceiling to reduce the risk of toppling.
- Cover the tree stand so they cannot drink the water. Trees can leach harmful fertilizers or pesticides into the water.
- Be sure that all cords and string lights are off the floor.
- Tighten ornament hooks to reduce falls and breaks.
- Imagine how your pet sees the tree; remove items that appear tantalizing.
- Tinsel, string, and ribbon are highly dangerous.
Holiday Plants
As you deck the halls, remember that many beautiful holiday plants are actually toxic hazards for your pets. Always be proactive! Keep all dangerous greenery and décor completely out of reach. This simple step is the best way to prevent accidental ingestion and save yourself a potentially stressful trip to the veterinarian during your busy holiday season.
To keep your dog or cat safe, these items should be avoided entirely or placed in areas completely inaccessible:
- All Lilies: Extremely dangerous, especially to cats. Even small ingestion (including pollen or water) can quickly lead to acute kidney failure.
- Amaryllis
- Yew
- Holly and Mistletoe
- Snowdrops
The Truth About Poinsettias
While often considered dangerous, poinsettias are only mildly toxic when compared to other holiday plants, meaning they pose a lower health concern.
If your pet does chew on a poinsettia, the milky white sap will likely cause temporary symptoms like mild drooling or stomach upset. The toxins are irritating but rarely fatal. To prevent this minor discomfort and avoid a non-emergency call to the vet, the easiest solution is to keep the plants safely out of your pet’s reach
Family, Friends, and Others
If you are hosting a holiday party this year, gauge whether or not you think your pet can safely handle company.
- Fashion a room away from the crowd for your pet to retreat to. Warm, cozy bedding, fresh water, white noise, low lighting, and healthy snacks can make a pet feel calm and in control.
- Exercise your pet thoroughly before the party begins.
- If you think your pet would feel better away from a crowd, hire a boarding facility or a pet sitter for the night to keep them safe and happy.
Many pets enjoy company and can navigate the unpredictable world of family gatherings. Request that your guests never offer your pet food or let them outside without permission.
Holiday Foods
The very foods that characterize the holiday season are often the ones responsible for pet poisonings. Rich, fatty foods (like butter, gravy, or turkey skin) can cause pancreatitis. Bones can lead to choking or GI obstruction. The following foods should always be safely displayed and stored to prevent accidental ingestion:
- Garlic, chives, onion
- Grapes or raisins
- Nuts
- Chocolate
- Alcohol
- Caffeine
Xylitol is Everywhere
Xylitol is an ingredient that is extremely toxic and potentially fatal to dogs, and unfortunately, it is becoming increasingly common in household products—even ones you wouldn’t expect.
Because xylitol can cause a rapid, dangerous drop in blood sugar and liver failure, you must always check the ingredient label on anything your pet might chew or consume. If you see any of these terms, treat that product as a serious poison and keep it well out of your pet’s reach!
Watch Out for Aliases
To make matters more confusing, manufacturers may use different names for xylitol on the packaging. Be on the lookout for these aliases:
- Birch sugar
- Birch bark extract
- Birch sap
- Sugar alcohol (Note: Xylitol is one type of sugar alcohol, but it is the most toxic one for pets.)
December Pet Care
One of the best ways to promote holiday pet safety is to keep up their daily routine. Meals, bathroom breaks, and exercise times should occur at the same times every day to reduce holiday-related stress and anxiety.
If you need us during the busy holiday season, please give us a call at 916-349-2755. Our team at Cherry Creek Veterinary Hospital is always here for your pet.