Holiday Hazards!

Holidays are a time to enjoy with family and friends, sharing our appreciation for all things great and small. Most of us have much to be thankful for and it’s important to enjoy this time to reflect upon that.

Thanksgiving also brings the commencement of… holiday season! Ah yes, pretty soon our hectic homes will be adorned with holiday decorations. But did you know that many of the season’s accouterments can also be holiday hazards?

The beautiful Christmas trees that adorn our homes can seem like virtual playgrounds for pets! Shiny tinsel, blinking lights, and actual balls hanging on the tree!

There are some simple things you can do to keep your pets and your home safe!

• Prevent toppling trees by securing a sturdy, clear fishing line from the tree to the ceiling.
• Replace dangerous metal hooks with plastic ties, and when possible avoid glass ornaments. Not only can they break and be a sentimental loss, but it could also mean a trip to the vet.
• Tinsel strings can cause serious intestinal problems if ingested. Look for the ones in garland form instead.
• For homes with puppies and/or babies, consider placing a foldable baby pen around the tree. Then, drape festive fabric over it to create a decorative safety barrier!
• Practice obedience training with your dog around the tree and other holiday items to teach him not to touch them. Supervise vigilantly.
• Keep in mind that poultry bones can splinter and be very dangerous for pets. Other types of bones can cause intestinal blockage as well.
• Plants are also a concern. Mistletoe, poinsettia, and Christmas cactus are all poisonous to pets. If you can’t bear to go without them, be sure to keep them out of pet’s reach!
• The same applies to holiday candles which could be toppled by a wagging tail, and chocolate which can be lethal to dogs.

Last but not least, don’t forget your dog in all the hustle and bustle. Not only would he enjoy a nice new dog toy, but some daily love and attention will be the best gift of all!