Pet Safety Tips for the Holiday

Holiday Pet Safety

Pet Safety Tips for the Holiday

We are here once again, the holiday season has crept upon us. And let’s be honest, the holidays are not only for us, but we also share these special days with our pets. We include them in most aspects of our life, we have doggie playdates, pet birthdays, even Pet Walks. I have a stocking for our dog and wrap gifts for her.

As much as we love our pets and want to include them in everything, we also want to keep them safe. Keeping them safe not only means keeping up with vet visits but being aware of safety issues when decorating for the holidays.

Our pets are naturally curious about their surroundings, so when you start to change what’s around them they are going to investigate. It’s important to try to keep your pets from eating and playing with the decorations. There are a few unhealthy treats, toxic plants, and fragile decorations that can seriously harm your pets.

Plants and Decorations

Here are a few Christmas safety tips to keep you from making a trip to the vet thanks to the ASPCA.

• Oh, Christmas Tree: Securely anchor your Christmas tree so it doesn't tip and fall, causing possible injury to your pet. This will also prevent the tree water—which may contain fertilizers that can cause stomach upset—from spilling. Stagnant tree water is a breeding ground for bacteria, and your pet could end up with nausea or diarrhea should he imbibe.
• Avoid Mistletoe & Holly: Holly, when ingested, can cause pets to suffer nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Mistletoe can cause gastrointestinal upset and cardiovascular problems. And many varieties of lilies can cause kidney failure in cats if ingested. Opt for just-as-jolly artificial plants made from silk or plastic, or choose a pet-safe bouquet.
• Tinsel-less Town: Kitties love this sparkly, light-catching "toy" that's easy to bat around and carry in their mouths. But a nibble can lead to a swallow, which can lead to an obstructed digestive tract, severe vomiting, dehydration, and possible surgery. It's best to brighten your boughs with something other than tinsel.
• That Holiday Glow: Don't leave lighted candles unattended. Pets may burn themselves or cause a fire if they knock candles over. Be sure to use appropriate candle holders, placed on a stable surface. And if you leave the room, put the candle out!
• Wired Up: Keep wires, batteries, and glass or plastic ornaments out of paws' reach. A wire can deliver a potentially lethal electrical shock and a punctured battery can cause burns to the mouth and esophagus, while shards of breakable ornaments can damage your pet's mouth and digestive tract.

Visit ASPCA for more information on holiday food dangers and how to have a pet-safe holiday gathering. If you think your pet might have gotten into something they shouldn’t have, contact your veterinarian immediately. Keep the numbers handy or call the 24-hour ASPCA emergency poison hotline at 1-888-426-4435 if you have any concerns about harmful substances ingested by your pet.

Pet Boarding in Abilene

Our pets are a huge part of our lives and family. Giving them the best and looking out for their health is a part of what we do as pet owners. Another thing we do for the love of our pets is finding a place that will care for our pets when we leave the house or go out of town. Diamonds in the Ruff is a pet boarding facility in Abilene that is here to care for your pets this holiday season. We offer a boarding experience your pets will love and can trust. Our staff is trained, the owners live on the premises, and we offer short and long-term stays. Contact us at 325-695-2931 or visit us at www.diamondsintheruffpetboarding.com to learn more. You can also book their stay on our Facebook page.