Holidays Hazards For Your Pets: Here's What To Know

Pets are a part of the family, and having fun with them during the holidays is a great way to spend time together. However, it's essential to keep in mind that there are some hazards of holidays that can be dangerous for your pets.

 

The following are a few tips to help you keep your furry friends safe this holiday season.

Holiday Decorations

Christmas decor is one of the most exciting parts of the holiday season, but it can also be dangerous for pets. Follow these tips to make sure your pets are safe around your Christmas decorations:

 

• Keep all holiday decorations out of reach of pets. This includes lights, tree ornaments, garland and tinsel.
• Keep pets away from the water base of a Christmas tree, as it contains dangerous toxins that can harm them.
• Keep your tree's lights and tinsel up high where pets cannot reach them. Tinsel is especially dangerous as it can cause internal injuries if ingested by your pet.

 

Holiday Guests

Holidays provide opportunities for laughter and enjoyment, which often involve more people in your home. With all the guests in your home, it's essential to make sure that you and your pet have a comfortable time.

 

• Make sure there's a place for your pet to get away from the hustle and bustle of holiday guests. You might consider putting them in their crate.
• If possible, try not to leave your pet unattended with strangers who may not be aware of how to interact with animals. 
• If your pet is accustomed to being left alone for long periods of time, you may want to consider leaving them with a friend or family member who can take care of them during this stressful holiday season. 
• If your pet is feeling nervous about all the different people in your home, try playing some music or giving them treats as soon as someone comes through the door.

 

Food Hazards For Pets During The Holidays

We all agree that holiday food is the highlight of the festive season, but what about our pets? Many of the foods that humans eat are dangerous for our pets.

 

Here are some examples:

 

• Chocolate: Chocolate is a known toxin for dogs and cats. Chocolate contains theobromine, which could be very harmful to pets if ingested. It's best to keep chocolate out of reach of your pets, especially during the holidays when they may be extra curious about what you are eating.

 

• Onions and garlic: It may sound counterintuitive, but onions and garlic are actually toxic to dogs. These foods can cause hemolytic anemia in some animals, which involves red blood cells getting destroyed faster than they can be replaced by your pet's body. 

 

• Bones: Bones, especially turkey bones, are dangerous for dogs to eat because they can splinter, which can cause intestinal blockages. If your pet does happen to eat a turkey bone and you notice symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea or lethargy, take him or her to the vet right away.

 

The holidays are a time to celebrate, and we want to make sure your pets get in on the fun. Knowing the potential health risks to your pet associated with the holidays can help keep you and your pet safe this holiday season. Consult your vet if you have any concerns about your pet's health or behavior during this festive season.

 

This Festive Season, Wescott Acres Luxury Pet Resort Is The Ultimate Pet Destination!

When you bring your pet to us for grooming or boarding in Columbia, we will treat it as if it were our own. We provide individualized and tailored care to suit each pet's unique needs.

Whether you have us care for your cat while you're on holiday or take advantage of any other kind of service we provide, we will get to know both of you and do everything in our power so that this becomes a positive experience for your pet.
Need a safe and fun place for your pet to stay during the holidays? Book your pet's boarding appointment now before we book up!