5 Holiday Pet Hazards to Avoid
16th December 2024
The holiday season is a time of joy, gatherings, and delicious treats – but it can also be filled with hidden dangers for your pets. At Petpals, we understand how much your furry friends mean to you, so we’ve compiled a list of common holiday hazards to watch out for and how to keep your pets safe during this festive time.
1. Dangerous Decorations
- Tinsel and Ribbons: These shiny objects may be irresistible to cats and dogs but can cause intestinal blockages if ingested.
- Ornaments: Glass or fragile ornaments can break easily, creating sharp edges that can injure curious pets.
- Christmas Trees: Pets may be tempted to climb or chew on your tree. Anchor it securely to prevent tipping and consider using pet-safe ornaments.
- Lights and Cords: Dangling cords can be a chewing hazard, leading to electrical shocks. Use cord protectors or keep them out of reach.
Tip: Spray citrus or pet-safe deterrents on decorations to make them less appealing to chew.
2. Toxic Holiday Foods
- Chocolate: A favourite holiday treat for humans, chocolate contains theobromine, which is toxic to pets.
- Grapes and Raisins: Found in mince pies, Christmas pudding and other treats, these can cause kidney failure in dogs.
- Alcohol: Even small amounts of alcoholic beverages can be harmful to pets, leading to vomiting, lethargy, or worse.
- Turkey Bones: Cooked bones can splinter and cause choking or internal injuries.
- Xylitol: This artificial sweetener, often found in sugar-free gums and desserts, is extremely toxic to dogs.
Tip: Keep food out of reach and ensure guests know not to feed your pets table scraps.
3. Festive Plants
- Poinsettias: Though not highly toxic, these plants can cause irritation if chewed on by pets.
- Mistletoe: These are toxic, potentially causing vomiting, diarrhoea, and even cardiovascular issues.
- Holly and Ivy: These can lead to severe gastrointestinal upset if ingested.
- Christmas Tree Water: Often treated with preservatives or fertilisers, this water can be dangerous if your pet decides to take a sip.
Tip: Opt for pet-safe plants or keep these holiday staples out of reach.
4. Holiday Stress and Crowds
The influx of visitors, loud noises, and changes in routine can cause anxiety in pets. Signs of stress include pacing, hiding, excessive barking, or changes in eating habits.
Solutions:
- Create a quiet, safe space for your pet to retreat to during gatherings.
- Stick to their regular feeding and walking schedules.
- Use calming aids, such as pet-safe pheromone diffusers, if needed.
5. Gift Hazards
Unwrapping presents is exciting, but the aftermath can be risky for pets. Wrapping paper, bows, Cellotape and small toy parts can become choking hazards if left unattended.
Tip: Clean up promptly after unwrapping gifts and monitor pets around small or chewable items.
How Petpals Can Help
Holiday preparations can leave you stretched thin. That’s where Petpals comes in! Our professional pet care services ensure your furry friends are safe, happy, and well-cared for – even during the busiest season. Whether you need pet sitting, dog walking, or boarding, we’re here to make the holidays stress-free for you and your pet.
Final Thoughts
The holidays should be a time of joy for the whole family, pets included! By being mindful of these common hazards, you can create a safe and happy environment for your furry friends.
If you have questions or need support with pet care this holiday season, reach out to Petpals today. Let’s make it a season to remember – for all the right reasons!
