Keep Your Pets Healthy this Holiday

 

'Tis the season for celebrating—with friends, family, and a glass of eggnog or hot cocoa. But before you get into the full swing of the Christmas celebrations, please take a moment to make sure that your furry family members stay safe, healthy and happy this holiday season with the following safety tips:

Christmas tree caution. Christmas trees are beautiful, but your pet might think it's just an extra-large toy to climb or play with. Make sure your tree is securely anchored so that it doesn't fall, causing possible injury to your pet. Also, try to keep the tree water as fresh as possible and pesticide-free, in case your pet sneaks a drink.

Retire the tinsel. Sparkly, light-catching tinsel looks good on the tree, but it can wreak havoc on your pet's intestinal system if they ingest it. Brighten your tree boughs with ornaments and other pet-friendly decorations instead.

Watch out for wires. Twinkly Christmas lights make your season (and home) bright, but exposed wires can be tempting for your pets to chew on. Try to keep wires covered or out of your pet's reach.

Hide the holly. Did you know holly, mistletoe, and poinsettia plants are poisonous to dogs and cats? If you normally use these plants to decorate your home, they should be kept in an area your pet cannot reach.

Forego the food scraps. Dinner may be delicious, but fatty, spicy human foods, as well as bones, should not be fed to your furry friends. Keep unattended plates of food out of reach, and be sure to secure the lids on garbage cans.

Happy Holidays from PAWS!