The festive season is a time for joy and celebrations. It’s a period when family and friends come together, and pets are no exception. They too share in the fun, yet it’s vital to watch out for potential dangers. Many don’t realise how everyday Christmas decorations and foods can be hazardous to our furry companions. These celebrations can bring many dangers if we’re not careful. Being aware keeps your pets safe and lets you enjoy the festivities worry-free.
Tinsel and Ornaments
Tinsel might as well be the glittery bane of pet owners during Christmas. It shimmers and sways, tempting our pets into a game of tug-of-war or a flicking paw batting session. But if ingested, tinsel can cause severe internal injuries, or worse, a choking hazard. Ornaments, while pretty to look at, can shatter into sharp pieces or be swallowed. Imagine swallowing a glass bauble – not a festive thought.
Christmas Lights and Cords
Twinkling lights bring cheer, but their cords are a magnet for pets looking for a chew. Puppies, in particular, might fancy them as chew toys. Chewing on live wires can lead to electrical shocks or burns. Lights can also pose a risk of tangling. Ensure cords are out of reach, and secure any long lines to avoid a tangled mess for your curious pets.
Food Safety During the Holidays
Common toxic foods include chocolate, dried fruits, nuts, nutmeg, mace and alcohol – and cooked bones if you eat meat) are unsafe. Read this book to keep your dog safe for more info. And read how to keep people and pets safe in the kitchen.
Keep Pets Away from Rock Salt
For snow, avoid rock salt as it’s toxic (rinse paws after walks in warm water, to remove it, as it can burn indoors at higher temperatures).
Keep Toxic Plants away from Pets
Christmas plants toxic to pets (even if a tail brushes past) include holly, mistletoe, ivy, begonias, poinsettas and lilies. Learn how to make gardens safe for pets (includes indoor plants to avoid). Avoid facing indoor foliage to gardens, to help stop birds flying into windows.
Don’t Send Plantable Cards to Homes with Pets
Plantable cards are very popular, when you plant them in the garden to grow wildflowers. But most species are toxic to pets, so don’t plant received ones, nor send them to households with pets.
Give Pets Respite from Loud Noises
Many pets get frightened by loud noises like Christmas crackers or fireworks, so ensure they have safe secure areas to escape too. Older pets too may need a quiet place to rest, if they are overwhelmed by too many visitors at the same time.
