The holiday season is a time of joy, family, and celebration, but it can also present some unique challenges when it comes to keeping your pets safe and healthy. From festive foods to decorations, there are a variety of potential hazards lurking around your home. As your trusted veterinary team at Ingleside Animal Hospital, we want to share some essential tips to ensure your pets stay safe, happy, and healthy throughout the holiday season.
1. Beware of Holiday Foods
The holiday table is full of tempting treats, but many of the foods we enjoy are toxic to pets. Rich, fatty foods like turkey skin, gravy, chocolate, raisins, and certain spices can cause serious digestive issues, or even be life-threatening to your pet. Make sure your pet doesn’t have access to leftovers or scraps, and be especially cautious with chocolate and alcohol, which can be very harmful. If your pet does ingest something they shouldn’t, contact your veterinarian immediately.
Tip: Keep food out of reach, and if you want to include your furry friend in the festivities, opt for pet-safe treats instead.
2. Keep Decorations Out of Reach
Festive decorations can be beautiful, but they can also pose risks to your pets. Cats may be drawn to climbing the Christmas tree, and both cats and dogs might be tempted to chew on tinsel, ornaments, or ribbons. These items can cause choking hazards or internal blockages. Additionally, Christmas lights and electrical cords can be dangerous if chewed on, leading to potential electric shocks.
Tip: Secure your tree, use non-toxic decorations, and make sure cords and ornaments are out of your pet’s reach.
3. Watch Out for Holiday Plants
Many popular holiday plants, such as poinsettias, mistletoe, and holly, are toxic to pets. Ingesting even a small amount of these plants can cause symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, or even more serious health issues. If you plan to decorate with live plants, consider using artificial versions, or place real plants in areas that are completely inaccessible to your pets.
Tip: Familiarize yourself with the plants in your home and make sure to keep any potentially dangerous ones far out of reach.
4. Be Mindful of Stress and Change
Holidays can bring a lot of changes to your home environment: unfamiliar guests, different routines, and lots of noise. This can be stressful for pets, especially those who are more sensitive to change. Make sure your pet has a quiet, comfortable space to retreat to when the chaos of holiday gatherings gets overwhelming. Keep up with their regular routine as much as possible, including feeding, walking, and playtime.
Tip: Create a calm environment for your pet by designating a safe space where they can relax away from the festivities.
5. Traveling with Your Pet? Plan Ahead
If you’re planning to travel with your pet this holiday season, it’s essential to prepare in advance. Make sure your pet is comfortable in their travel carrier, and bring all the necessary supplies, including food, water, medications, and their favorite toys. Also, check with your veterinarian to ensure your pet is up-to-date on vaccinations, especially if they’ll be around other animals.
Tip: Keep your pet’s comfort and safety in mind during travel, and avoid leaving them unattended in a car for extended periods.
The holiday season can be a magical time for families, and with a little preparation, it can be just as enjoyable for your pets. At Ingleside Animal Hospital, we care about your pets’ well-being, and we’re here to help you navigate any potential holiday hazards. If you have any concerns or need advice on keeping your pet safe this season, don’t hesitate to reach out.
Wishing you and your furry friends a safe, healthy, and happy holiday season!
Happy Holidays from Ingleside Animal Hospital! ??
If you have questions and you'd like to reach out to us, you can call us directly at (602) 833-7511, or you can email us at [email protected]. Don't forget to follow us on social media Facebook, Instagram.