Holiday Safety Tips For Your Pets

December 23, 2016

As you’re getting ready for the festivities to begin, you’ve probably already put up the Christmas tree and decorated the house. But is it pet-proof?

Lots of Christmas decorations and goodies can be hazardous for dogs and cats. With so much sparkle going on, it’s hard for your pet to restrain themselves. So let’s look at a few ways to keep your pets safe and out of harm’s way.

Holiday Safety Tips For Your Pets

1. Some people like to fill their house with the pine scent of a real Christmas tree, but pine needles could cause damage to your pet if ingested. So make sure you pick up any fallen needles.
2. Placing your tree in a corner will help prevent your pet from knocking it over. Try placing a barrier around the bottom of the tree like wrapped gifts to keep them away from the ornaments.
3. It’s a good idea to not use popcorn string, candy canes, or anything edible to decorate your tree because no dog will be able to resist that tasty, free morsel. Stay away from tinsel too; cats particularly love chewing on it.
4. Keep your Christmas lights and ornaments away from the bottom branches of the tree, so your pets won’t play with them or try to bite into them. Any loose wires should be secure and away from happy, frolicking paws.
5. Other plants to watch out for are those holiday favourites - poinsettia, mistletoe and holly. These plants are known to be toxic to dogs and cats, so keep them out of reach of your pets.
6. The only thing left to remember is to make sure you wrap up a present for your pet. Dogs and cats love joining in the fun of unwrapping the gifts. Try using a non-toxic wrapping paper, so they can rip into it safely and joyfully.

Keep your pets safe and happy this holiday season!

Photo credit: CL Photographs