Pet Safety for the Holiday Season

As you prepare for the upcoming holidays, be sure to keep your furry friends in mind! Here are some quick tips to help ensure your pets stay healthy and happy this holiday season.

Food can be one of the biggest dangers that your pet faces this holiday. The following common holiday foods can pose a threat:

Turkey skin – Even small portions of turkey skin can cause pancreatitis, a potentially life-threatening condition.
Gravy and meat fat – These rich foods are difficult for pets to digest and can cause many troubles for your pet.
Yeast dough – Yeast dough can cause painful gas and bloating in animals.

Decorating your home is great for spreading holiday cheer, but it’s important to note that some décor can cause harm to your pet.

Lights – Cats and dogs are known to chew on electric wiring. This can cause severe burns or potentially even fires.
Water additives for Christmas trees – Some pets can’t seem to resist drinking the water from the Christmas tree stand. Some additives to the water can be toxic to your pet. To be safe, skip the additives!
Tinsel – Consuming tinsel can cause internal blockages, which can be very harmful to pets. Be sure to keep the tinsel out of reach!

If you’re hosting a party over the holidays, remember that this can be stressful for your pet. Consider these tips to keep them at ease.

Watch the door – With guests going in and out of your house, and all the noise and commotion they often bring, your pet may try to escape. It’s best to keep your pets in a safe, enclosed area while you entertain your guests.
Know before you go – You should inform your visitors about what pets you have before they arrive at your house. This is essential in preventing allergic reactions or distress by those who may fear animals.
Let’s see some ID – Be sure your pet has a collar and tag with his or her name and your contact info. Microchipping services are also available that can help return you to your furry friend if they get lost.

With these quick tips, you can be sure your furry one remains safe and sound this holiday season!