Home Safety for Pets During the Holidays

If you are anything like me, you wouldn't dream of posing risks to your beloved pet's safety - after all, they are a valued member of your family. Knowing how to keep them safe from common household dangers during the Christmas season gives you peace of mind, and avoids unnecessary stress to your household.

Beware of Holiday Plants. Many holiday plants such as amaryllis, mistletoe and holy pose a risk to inquisitive pets. These plants are toxic and can cause injury or death if consumed. Myths abound that poinsettias pose similar risks, but according to the Washington State College of Veterinary Medicine the risk from poinsettias in minimal. Although the milky sap may irritate the mouth, poinsettias do not pose a significant health risk for either cats or dogs.

Water. Keeping your Christmas tree stand filled with water may be good for your tree but it may pose danger to your pets - especially if you use commercial products to keep the tree fresh. Try using a non-diet citrus soda in the reservoir instead, and cover the top with a heavy tree skirt to keep Fido from sneaking a drink.

Tinsel. Although tinsel may set your tree aglow with sparkling reflections, it poses a danger to both cats and dogs. Once ingested the material in tinsel may form a ball in the stomach - or even worse get caught under the tongue - and result in a medical emergency or death. Forego tinsel and save yourself and your pet from heartache.

Ribbons. Don't let the temptation to let your pets play with ribbons and bows lull you into thinking they are safe. If you must allow kitty to have a little fun, do so with caution. Tie ribbons to dowels or hang them from a hook and supervise kitty's play. If left unattended, many cats chew and swallow strings and ribbons posing the risk of obstruction and possible death.

Edible Gifts. Storing edible gifts - especially chocolate - under the tree may pose too much temptation for your pets. Keep holiday treats out of the reach of pets to insure their safety.

Holiday Lights. Pets that chew - like that adorable new puppy - may be attracted to electrical cords, which pose the danger of shock or death. Keep cords out of the reach of pets to keep everyone safe for the holidays.

Food and Beverages. Inform guests of the importance of properly disposing of uneaten foods and beverages and check regularly for forgotten tidbits, as these may pose a risk to your pets.

Stress. The flurry of activity associated with Christmas may be more than your pet can handle. Place them in a secluded room with a generous supply of food and water while you entertain guests. Not only does this calm the nerves of small pets, it prevents accidental injuries or the dreaded escape to the outside as guests enter or leave. Do your pets a favor and keep them safe by providing them with a secure area for the holidays.

Keeping your pets safe at Christmas time only takes a minute or two, but allows both of you to enjoy the holiday season without concerns for hidden dangers.

Other work by this author:
Cat and Strings: Cute but Deadly
Feline Epilepsy: Is Your Cat at Risk?
Holiday Gifts: The Cat Lover's Gift Basket