Holiday Pet Safety Tips The
holiday season is upon us, and many
pet parents plan to include their
furry companions in the festivities.
As you gear up for the holidays, it is
important to steer your pets clear of
unhealthy treats, toxic plants, and
dangerous decorations.
Be Careful with Seasonal Plants
and Decorations
• O Christmas Tree: Securely
anchor your Christmas tree so it
doesn't tip and fall, causing possible
injury to your pet. Do not let pets drink the tree water, which may
contain bacteria that can cause stomach upset.
• Avoid Mistletoe & Holly: Holly, when ingested, can cause pets to
suffer nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. 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.
• 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.
Avoid Holiday Food Dangers
• Skip the Sweets: By now you know not
to feed your pets chocolate and anything
sweetened with xylitol. Holiday cookies and
candies are not good for your pets.
• Leave the Leftovers: Fatty, spicy foods,
as well as bones, should not be fed to your
furry friends. As a rule, pets should not be fed
human food.
• Careful with Cocktails: If your celebration
includes adult holiday beverages, be sure to
place your unattended alcoholic drinks where
pets cannot get to them.
• Selecting Special Treats: Looking to stuff your pet's stockings?
Stick with dog chew toys that are basically indestructible. Surprise
kitty with a new ball that's too big to swallow, a stuffed catnip toy, or
the interactive cat dancer.
Also, as you count down to the New Year, keep in mind that noisy
poppers can terrify your pets and many of them are also scared of
fireworks. Finally, remember to give your furry family members
their own quiet space to retreat to, complete with fresh water and a
place to snuggle, away from the holiday season hubbub.
LOST YOUR PET? Contact Tails & Trails at (951) 663-7012. ~
Vivian Walker, vivr@sbcglobal.net
38 FOUR SEASONS BREEZE | DECEMBER 2020
Tails & Trails - All Pets
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