How To Keep Pets Safe During The Holidays
The holidays are approaching, and amongst all the hustle and bustle, your pet can get overlooked. From added stress, ingesting dangerous foods or materials, and holiday-related accidents, your pet can be in serious danger before you know it. By keeping an eye out for potential dangers, you can prevent accidents from happening.
Thanksgiving: Grateful For Pets
Thanksgiving is a wonderful time to gather with family and friends, but it can pose some unexpected risks for our furry companions. Being vigilant about what dangers lurk in your festive plans can make all the difference for your pet’s safety.
One danger at Thanksgiving time is turkey bones. They’re appealing to dogs and cats but can easily splinter and cause harm. Make sure to keep all poultry bones out of reach and dispose of scraps properly. Even if you feel that it will be okay and you’ve given them to your pet before, a splintered turkey bone can splinter into sharp fragments which can puncture a dog’s esophagus, stomach, or intestines, or it could get caught in their throat causing a choking hazard. It only takes once. Similarly, chocolate and other sweets should be kept away from pets as they can be toxic to both dogs and cats.
If your pet is prone to anxiety, creating a separate, quiet space for them can help them feel secure while guests come and go. This sanctuary is especially important if your pet’s not fond of strangers or loud environments. Providing them with their favorite toys or a cozy bed can make their safe space feel like a haven during the chaos.
If your pet tends to get anxious around too many people, consider calming techniques or products like pet-friendly treats or diffusers. These can make gatherings a bit easier on your critters. Planning ahead will help keep them calm and happy.
One thing many pet owners over look is their’s pet’s identification. Double-check that your pet’s ID tags and microchip details are up-to-date. With doors opening and closing frequently for guests, pets might slip out unnoticed.
Also, for those pets who might be meeting new faces, introduce guests slowly. Allow your pets to approach on their own terms and never force interactions. This helps prevent any behavioral issues that can arise from too much excitement or anxiety.
Christmas Cheer: Holiday Decorating Without the Danger
Christmas decorations can add beauty to your home but remember they’re also new and exciting hazards to your pets. Curious cats might see your Christmas tree as a climbing challenge, while rambunctious dogs might view it as a giant toy. Secure the tree to prevent it from toppling and keep smaller decorations out of reach to avoid accidental ingestion.
Be cautious with traditional holiday plants like poinsettias, mistletoe, and holly. Though lovely, they’re toxic to animals. Consider using silk or plastic replicas to keep the festive spirit without the risk.
Gift wrapping can also create temporary chaos. Shiny ribbons and strings are especially enticing but can be dangerous if swallowed. Keep all wrapping materials in a safe spot when not in use, and make sure your pet can’t undo any choking hazards from the presents under the tree. To be safe, focus on pet-friendly décor. Choose chew-proof ornaments or edible treats specifically made for pets to put the focus on safety without sacrificing festivity. If you have sentimental ornaments that you must hang, hang them towards the top out of the reach of your fluffy friends.
Before hosting holiday gatherings, ensure any medicines or alcohol are well-locked and out of curious paws’ reach. A little foresight with safety can keep the cheer in the season while keeping your pets out of harm’s way.
Ring in the New Year: Navigating Noise and Festivities
New Year’s celebrations often come with a lot of noise, which can be stressful for pets. Fireworks and loud music might be exciting for some, but for animals, they can cause anxiety and distress. Preparing a quiet room with some background noise, like a TV or soft music, can help drown out the unsettling sounds. I had a German Shepherd who was very unnerved over fireworks. I always made sure he was left inside when I knew there would be fireworks going off. We had a basement that helped and he would go down there when it became loud.
For pets who struggle with noise, consider safe anxiety remedies. Talk to your vet about suitable options like pet-safe calming collars, anxiety medications, or natural solutions that might ease their stress.
If you’re hosting a New Year’s Eve bash, keep pets in mind. Ensure their safe zone is away from the main party area to avoid accidental access to risky foods or alcohol. Remain attentive to any cleaning needs throughout the night, so your pet doesn’t encounter residue or spilled substances.
After guests leave, make sure to clean up thoroughly. Tiny pieces of party favors or leftover food scraps can pose hazards if consumed by curious pets.
As the new year begins, consider setting health goals for your pets. Schedule a vet check-up to address any health concerns and revisit dietary needs. Fresh beginnings can be an opportunity to improve your pet’s quality of life, ensuring their wellness in the year to come.
May you and your fuzzy (or non-fuzzy) friends have a safe and blessed holiday season!
