Holiday Pet Hazards

For many pet owners, watching their dog or cat walk out the dog door or cat door is much the same as watching a child walk out the front door. You want them to be safe, and yet you want them to be able to enjoy life at the same time. This holiday season, you can help them do both by taking a few precautions with the holiday elements.

Edibles

If you think you have problems with all the amazing treats that are such a temptation for you, your pet is even more tempted. That’s because humans pretty much stop at chocolate and cakes, while pets might start chewing on plants as well. Oddly enough, the most well-known hazard—poinsettias—aren’t the most harmful. They can irritate your cat’s mouth, but they aren’t toxic. However, watch out for the holly and mistletoe, which are both toxic. Also, avoid giving your pets the foods listed below.

• Chocolate – Chocolate has a serious impact on your pet’s nervous system. It does on humans too, but in a different way. You’ve probably heard that chocolate in moderation is okay, and it’s true that one piece probably won’t do any serious damage, but you have to consider that you may not be the only one handing out treats. On top of that is the fact that your dog is most likely picking up crumbs off the floor that you don’t even know about.
• Turkey bones – Turkey bones are particularly dangerous to dogs because they splinter. When the bones splinter, they can perforate different parts of your dog’s digestive tract, or become lodged in it. In either case, it means a lot of pain for your pup. The fats and gravies associated with a turkey dinner aren’t good for your pet, either, no matter how much he or she may drool over the scent and sight of them.
• Xylitol – Maybe you are trying to do yourself a favor and avoid sugar this holiday season. That may be great for your diet, but it can be fatal to your pet. Xylitol is often used to replace sugar, and it can have a devastating effect on your pup.
• Alcohol – Under no circumstances should you ever give your pet an alcoholic beverage. They don’t enjoy it, and it will dehydrate them faster than you can imagine.

People

Among some of the holiday hazards to avoid are large groups of people. Your pet can become easily overwhelmed and run for the dog door, but they might also exhibit behavior that can be harmful. Before your party arrives, let your pet outside for a nature walk, and then tuck them in a safe place for the evening. If this safe place is their crate, be sure to include their favorite toy or stuffed animal. You might also cover the crate to reduce outside stimulation.

Be sure to keep pets from ornaments and lights as well. Even tinsel can be dangerous to your pets. You may not notice it because you get busy, but your pet can easily become overwhelmed during these times, so be sure to give them some added attention and affection. Also, a few extra pet-friendly treats won’t hurt.