Keeping your furry family members safe during this time of year can be difficult. There are many new things introduced to their living space that can look tempting. Here’s a list of things you can do to make sure your pets are safe this season:
- Place your Christmas tree in a corner, blocked off from your pet’s wanting eyes. If this doesn’t keep your dog or cat from attempting to jump onto the tree, you can place aluminum foil, a plastic drink bottle filled with knick knacks, or anything else that creates noise on the tree’s bottom limbs to warn you of an impending tree disaster. Make sure it is stable enough so that it can’t be knocked or pulled over by accident.
- Keep the area free and clear of real and fake pine needles. While they may not seem dangerous, the needles can puncture your pet’s intestines if ingested.
- Be sure the keep tinsel and lights away from the bottom branches. Both of these decorations are shiny and enticing. If ingested, tinsel can block intestines. If pets bite through the wiring lights, they can get shocked.
- Did you know holly, mistletoe, and poinsettia plants are poisonous to dogs or cats? If you normally use these plants to decorate your home, they should be kept in an area your pet cannot reach.
- When gift wrapping, be sure to keep your pet away. Wrapping paper, string, plastic, or cloth could cause intestinal blockages. Scissors are another hazard and they should be kept off floors or low tables.
- Be prepared! Call your vet to see if they are open during the holiday. If not, have them suggest of a vet that can be reached in case of an emergency.