Holiday Pet Hazards

Season’s Greetings! We hope that all of you are having a wonderful holiday season. It’s always nice to relax and enjoy some downtime with our friends and family members! Just keep in mind that this time of year can be dangerous to pets. A Dawsonville, GA veterinarian offers some pet safety tips below.

Decorations

Anything small or sharp is a concern. Those fragile ornaments can break into sharp shards if your four-legged pal were to try to eat or play with them! Items that are ropy or stringy, such as wires, cords, tinsel, lights, and garlands, present serious choking and entanglement risks to playful pets. Decorate carefully!

Plants

Many seasonal favorites, such as holly, ivy, and poinsettia, are toxic to pets. Although not all animals will eat them, some will chew on pretty much anything. Keep these in spots your fuzzy buddy can’t reach. If you get a real tree, be sure to cover the water bowl and pick up fallen needles. (You may also have your hands full keeping Fluffy out of the tree, but that’s another topic.)

Food

Our furry friends are very opportunistic eaters. Many pets get very interested when their humans cook large feasts, and aren’t shy about begging. Treats are fine, but stick with safe, suitable options. Some of the things that are dangerous to our four-legged buddies include garlic and onions; grapes, currants and raisins; meat on the bone; chocolate; caffeine; avocado; raw dough; and anything that contains xylitol. Of course, every type of animal has their own specific dietary needs. Ask your vet for more information. 

Fire

Fireplaces are a classic element of holiday mood and décor, but they aren’t safe for pets. Put a thick grate before your fireplace. You’ll need to be careful with candles and potpourri burners as well.

Stress

Our furry pals really do best on steady schedules, and can get very distressed by major changes to their environments or routines. Noise and commotion can also be upsetting, particularly around New Year’s Eve. Make sure that your fuzzy bff has a quiet spot to retreat to. For cats, this may be a kitty condo or even a cardboard box. If Fido has been properly crate trained, he may feel safest in his crate. 

All of us here at Petwise wish you a safe, healthy, and happy holiday season. Please contact us, your Dawsonville, GA veterinarians, anytime!