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Holiday Decorating with Pets
The holiday season is a time of joy, togetherness, and festive decorations. As you prepare to deck the halls and trim the tree, it's important to consider the safety of your furry family members.
Many holiday decorations, while beautiful, can pose risks to your pets. In this blog post, we'll explore pet-friendly decorating tips to ensure that your home remains both merry and safe for your furry family members.
Secure Your Ornaments
One of the first steps in pet-proofing your holiday decor is to ensure that ornaments are securely hung on the tree. Cats and dogs may be tempted to bat at or chew on hanging decorations, which can lead to accidents. Use sturdy hooks or strings to hang ornaments securely. For added safety, use shatterproof ornaments that won't break into dangerous shards if they fall.
Do Not Use Tinsel
Tinsel is trending this year: so you’ve likely seen it all over social media. Tinsel can add a sparkling touch to your tree, but it's also a serious hazard for pets, especially cats. The shiny, string-like strands can be attractive and enticing to curious pets. Unfortunately, if ingested, tinsel can lead to serious digestive issues or even blockages. Do not use tinsel in your holiday decorating: there are many other ways to bring sparkle to your home that don’t pose the same serious dangerous to your furry family members.
Watch for Flowers and Foliage
Be aware that many floral arrangements can be potentially dangerous to our beloved pets. While the exact level of toxicity can vary depending on the plant, common Christmas flowers like poinsettias, mistletoe, and holly can pose dangerous risks to cats and dogs if ingested. Symptoms of poisoning may include gastrointestinal upset, drooling, vomiting, and in severe cases, more serious health issues. Keep these plants out of your home: they’re pretty, but not worth the risk.
Keep Human Treats Away from Pets
As we indulge in delicious holiday treats during the Christmas season, it's crucial to remember that many of these goodies can be harmful to our pets.
Foods like chocolate, raisins, grapes, nuts, and certain sweeteners (like xylitol) are toxic to dogs and cats.
Rich, fatty dishes and bones can lead to digestive issues or even pancreatitis in pets.
Alcohol is a big no-no, as even small amounts can be extremely dangerous.
Marijuana (cannabis, THC) is also toxic to pets. Keep all forms of cannabis - including edibles - stored safely and away from pet (and kids!).
To keep your furry friends safe, don’t share your holiday feast with them. Instead, provide pet-safe treats and snacks specifically designed for their consumption. Always be vigilant and keep tempting but dangerous goodies out of reach to ensure a joyful and safe holiday season for your pets.
Secure the Tree
If you have a Christmas tree, ensure it is securely anchored to prevent it from toppling over if a curious pet decides to explore. A falling tree can cause injuries to your pet and significant damage to your home. If you have a real tree this year, be mindful of the stand, as well: tree stands designed to hold water can also be tempting for pets to drink from. Cover it to prevent access - and messes.
Candles and Flames
Candles and open flames are common during the holiday season. However, they can be a serious hazard if your pet accidentally knocks them over. To avoid potential fires or burns, keep candles and flames well out of your pet's reach, or consider using flameless LED candles as a safer alternative.
Electrical Cord Safety
Conceal or secure electrical cords to prevent pets from chewing on them. Chewing cords can result in electrical shocks, burns, and serious injuries. Cord protectors or pet-proofing covers can help keep your pets safe from electrical hazards.
Use Pet-Safe Decorations
Consider using pet-safe decorations made of materials like felt or fabric, which are less likely to harm your pet if they decide to investigate. You can even make DIY pet-friendly ornaments as a fun and safe crafting activity.
Supervision and Redirecting
If you have a curious puppy or kitten, supervise their interactions with holiday decorations. When they show interest in something they shouldn't, redirect their attention with toys and positive reinforcement.
Designate a Pet-Friendly Zone
Create a designated pet-friendly zone in your home where your furry friend can safely enjoy the festivities without access to potentially hazardous decorations. This area can be stocked with pet toys, cozy bedding, and their favorite treats.
Keeping the Holidays Merry AND SAFE for All Family Members
The holiday season should be a time of happiness for both you and your pets. By taking precautions and following these pet-safe decorating tips, you can enjoy the festive atmosphere without compromising your pet's safety.
Remember that a little planning and consideration go a long way in ensuring that your home remains joyful and hazard-free throughout the holiday season.
Wishing you and your furry family members a happy and safe holiday! 🐾🎄✨
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