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Once again Susie says what – things we need to be aware of during the busy holiday season to ensure the safety of our beloved pets. Whether you have a dog or cat, or some other variety of pet such as a ferret, hamster, guinea pig, bird, lizard or other, there are many things to watch for during this crazy and busy time of the year.
Susie’s top ten tips are:
1. Secure that Christmas tree – the tree can be a tempting target for your pets. My daddy’s parents had a cat that decided that the tree skirt made a great litter box. Also cats like to climb and bat anything hanging down in their reach. Dogs find the tree interesting as well – some male dogs might decide to use it to mark their territory – so watch out. Also the tree water can be a breeding ground for bacteria and the chemical additives can also cause problems.
2. Pass on displaying toxic plants – poinsettia, mistletoe, amaryllis and holly can be toxic for dogs. Cats also have problems with many plants including day lilies. If you must have these around, be sure that they are out of reach of curious noses and snouts. You can always go with artificial ones to be extra safe. If your pet displays vomiting or diarrhea, get them to the vet immediately, but eliminating these plants from the pet’s environment is a sure way to avoid this and keep your pet safe.
3. All that glitters isn’t gold or good – be prudent in your decorations. Completely avoid icicles and tinsel especially if you have a cat or cats. A pet that has ingested some of these can be a recipe for a huge vet bill to clear out the plumbing. Also do not hang breakable ornaments low on the tree. Obviously avoid ornaments made of food that will look and smell like a tasty treat for your pet. Hooks also can be treacherous for your buddies too.
4. Conceal and protect wires, lights and outlets – Wiring that is in poor condition or exposed for a pet to chew on can deliver a painful or even fatal shock to ruin your holiday season. Especially be watchful with puppies and kittens that are teething and just looking for something to chew on or mischief to get into. We are getting ready to bring a new puppy into our pack, and I plan to keep a close eye on the little dickens myself.
5. Take care at what goes under the tree – Your pet is also curious about what is under that Christmas tree. Remember that a dog’s nose is much keener than yours, so leaving food items or chocolates under the tree except when ready to distribute gifts is a bad idea. Daddy told me that he had a dog that “opened” a parcel of baking flour that he had ordered and gave the room a snowy coating one year – all because he forgot that a dog can smell right through the box. Also chocolate is a big no-no for us as well.
6. Clean up the wrappings after opening gifts – the paper, ribbons, bows and other odds and ends can be dangerous toys for your pet. Remove the danger by removing the mess.
7. Keep your pets safe from the winter elements – whether you are staying home for the holidays or traveling to be with friends and family, be sure that your pet is sheltered from the cold. Limit the time that they are exposed to the elements and be sure that they have warm blankets or a warm bed to retreat to when they come inside. My daddy waits for me when I go out into the back yard and lets me in as soon as I have taken care of myself.
8. Be sure that your pet has identification at all times – on the off chance that your pet heads out the door in all of the comings and goings during the holidays, especially with children around, your pet should be wearing a collar with good id tags. Also your pet should be micro chipped for quick identification. I have both. This is even more important when traveling away from home.
9. Provide your pet with a safe place to retreat during the busy-ness – If your pet appears to be getting stressed from the crowd, provide them with a quiet place or room to retreat. Let everyone know that the space is off-limits to all but you and your pet. I like the bed that I share with my daddy when I want to get out of the noise – even of the TV and surround sound. If your pet wants to socialize, be sure that they are not sampling the guests food or begging for treats. Always keep a watchful eye on them.
10. People food is not pet food – be careful what you allow your pet to consume. “Spoiling” your pet with people food can shorten their lifespan. Some food and bones can lead to serious complications and even death. Be sure that you have spent time understanding what food items are acceptable and those that are not. I get green beans with a smaller portion of my dried food in the evening to keep my girlish figure.
Most of all by following these basic guidelines you and your pet(s) can enjoy a joyous and happy holiday season and a happy new year!
Susie Claws
December 20, 2022
