How to Keep your Pet Safe During the Christmas Season

With an animal in the house you need to take extra steps to make sure they are safe.

• Cats like to climb so you need to be sure the tree is secure enough or the cat is not left unattended with the Christmas tree.
• Make sure the Christmas lights are out of reach. Dogs, puppies, cats and kittens like to chew on things so make sure they can't get to the lights hung from the tree.
• If you like to decorate with Christmas tinsel, hang it high enough that the pet can't ingest it.
• Lots of things are shiny and bright this time of year. The packages are decorated to catch the eye of the beholder, just make sure the beholder isn't your precious pet.
• Keep the pet's water supply clean and fresh daily. We don't want the little guys drinking from the tree stand.
• Watch those holiday plants. Several plants are poisonous to pets and the poinsettia is no exception. Ask your vet or search the internet for a list of plants that are poisonous to pets before you bring them into your house.
• Supervise all candles. Pets are attracted to light in a dark room. Not only could they receive serious burns, but they can knock burning candles over spilling hot wax over carpet and furniture. Don't leave burning candles unattended for your pet's sake, and for the obvious fire hazards.
• Crowds of people and holiday festivities can frighten animals. If you plan to entertain you must plan ahead on your pets' behalf. Make sure they have a "safe haven" where they can retreat to and remember to supervise your dog around young children.
• Be careful that company are aware that doors need to be kept closed and monitored so your pet doesn’t accidently get out of the home and become lost or injured on a busy road.
• Pets can be allowed to romp through discarded wrapping paper and empty boxes, but be sure to dispose of all bows, yarn and curling ribbons to prevent swallowing and intestinal blockage, or strangulation.
• While a little turkey or chicken may not harm your pet, be very careful of bones which can splinter and cause intestinal blockage or internal lacerations. Also be aware that large quantities of chocolate can be highly toxic. Keep all sweets, but especially chocolate, safely out of the reach of curious noses and little paws.
• Batteries contain a highly corrosive acid that can burn a pet's mouth if it leaks or the container is broken by chewing. Keep them stored safely away.