You Better Watch Out: Holiday Safety Tips for You and Your Pets
Holiday safety tips for new (or old) friends hanging around this season.
The holiday season is upon us! This year our gatherings may be smaller than usual, but we still need to keep a careful eye on those who bring us so much joy year ‘round - our family pets.
Holiday traditions often involve decorations, holiday plants, special foods, and visitors, not all of which may be pet-friendly. So plan ahead and avoid an expensive vet bill or injury to a beloved furry family member. With a little prep work, your holiday plans can be merry and bright for everyone.
Use Care with Decorations
Decorations like ribbons, tinsel, ornaments, lights, and candles are often attractive to pets, as they may be shiny, smell interesting, or move in fun ways. Keep these things well out of your pet’s reach to prevent a treasured object from being broken or, even worse, devoured. Always be aware of objects using batteries that are dangerous if chewed. For tall decorations prone to tipping, try securing them to a wall or even hanging them from the ceiling.
Plants to Avoid
Unfortunately, some of our favorite seasonal plants we use to brighten up our homes are both tempting and toxic to many animals. Poinsettias, holly berries, and pine needles are irritating to dogs’ and cats’ stomachs, resulting in vomiting or diarrhea. Others plants, such as mistletoe and lilies, are toxic and can cause serious damage. Tree water can also be dangerous to pets, especially if any substances have been added to extend the life of the tree.
Foods to Avoid
Food is love so it’s tempting to share a bit of our meal. Those big, sad eyes are hard to resist, but avoid giving pets fatty foods, cooked bones, macadamia nuts, chocolate, and other harmful goodies. Instead, keep some pet safe treats handy to share with your pet so they don’t feel left out. Offering an appropriate outlet to hold pets’ attention while unsupervised during the holidays can also help keep them out of trouble. Food puzzles, wobblers, stuffed Kongs, or pupsicles using ice trays are great distractors.
Remember: If you believe your pet has eaten something it shouldn't have, call your veterinarian or local veterinary emergency clinic immediately.
Navigating Visitors
Finally, take extra time to be sure your pet feels safe and comfortable. Whether you live with a snuggly snake or a rambunctious kitten, the holidays can be stressful for pets. Many households adopted animals during the pandemic and may not have had the chance to get them used to new situations or people. Remember to have a safe zone where your pets can get away from stress and relax, and be sure your guests understand not to follow pets into their safe zones. Always supervise your pets with new people or small children, and never force pets into an interaction if they appear uncomfortable. Let your pets approach new people at their own pace, give them choices, and coach people on how to greet your pets to help them feel safe.
It’s not too late to start off the holiday season on the right paw. The East Bay SPCA offers online group dog training, online and in-person private dog training, and on-demand online on common cat and dog behavior topics. Courses are designed to enrich the bond between you and your companion through positive reinforcement methods so training is enjoyable for everyone.
Best wishes for a happy holiday season from your friends at the East Bay SPCA!