The festive season is a time of joy and celebration but it can also pose unexpected dangers for our beloved pets. As you deck the halls and embrace the Christmas spirit this year, it’s important to be mindful of potential hazards to your furry friends. These essential tips will help ensure a safe and happy Christmas for you and your pets.
Christmas Trees and Tinsel
Christmas trees and pets don’t always mix! With their shiny ornaments, flashing lights, dangling tinsel and mouth-watering treats, Christmas trees can be irresistible to pets.
If you have a bouncy dog or curious cat, make sure that your tree is securely anchored to prevent accidental tipping. When decorating your tree, avoid edible ornaments that aren’t pet-safe, such as candy canes or chocolate ornaments that are poisonous to dogs. Place delicate ornaments higher up, out of your pet’s reach to prevent accidents.
Lights and Candles
Twinkling lights and candles help to create a festive ambience during the dark winter days, but they also pose potential dangers for pets. Always keep a close eye on your pets around electrical wires to prevent chewing, particularly if you have a puppy, kitten, indoor rabbit or guinea pig, as these are notorious for chewing without a thought!
Never leave a lit candle unattended, as a curious pet might get too close or accidentally knock it over when playing. Flameless candles are a safer alternative and will still give your home that cosy Christmas feel.
Other Decorations
From evergreen garlands to hanging stockings, decorations can add a magical touch to your home, but some Christmas décor can be hazardous to pets. Be particularly cautious with Christmas plants and flowers, such as poinsettias and mistletoe as these are toxic. Tree sap from real Christmas trees and fir, spruce or pine needles are also hazardous to your pet’s health if ingested.
Puppies and kittens may mistake shiny tinsel for a new toy, and this can cause life-threatening obstruction if swallowed, so don’t leave it dangling loose where your pets can reach it.
Choose pet-safe decorations and secure them firmly to prevent accidental ingestion or injury. You may want to consider taking out specialist dog insurance to protect your four-legged friend in case of an accident during the festive period.
Christmas Parties
Christmas can be a busy time for many households and normal routines can be disrupted, which can cause stress and anxiety for some pets. Many homes will have more visitors over the festive season too and the hustle and bustle of these gatherings and parties can prove overwhelming for some pets.
Create a quiet retreat for your pet away from the festivities using their favourite toys and bedding. Let your guests know in advance about your pets and ask for their cooperation in giving them space and avoiding feeding them unfamiliar foods. You could consider using pheromone diffusers or calming sprays for particularly anxious pets to reduce their stress.
Article Supplied