Pets Can Stay Pet-Friendly Travel Services

'Tis The Season

Holiday Safety Tips for You and Your Pet

by Carla Lewis

This time of year can be an exciting and busy time, as we prepare for the Christmas season. But for our favourite, four-legged companions, whose perspective of the world tends to be one or two feet off the floor, the holidays can be dangerous and stressful. The Christmas trees, lights, ornaments, accessible food, garlands & ribbons galore, new smells, noise and bustle can also mean emergency trips to the veterinarian for our pets. Accidental chocolate poisoning by well meaning visitors, and emergency surgeries for turkey bones snatched from the kitchen garbage or tinsel that mysteriously disappeared from the tree can be all too common at this time of year. At Pets Can Stay we want everyone to enjoy a safe and happy festive season and it is with this goal in mind that we have compiled the following helpful tips and reminders for your consideration at this time of year.

Decorations and ornaments are big temptations for cats and dogs as they look like swinging toys to their eyes. Either “gate off” the area around the tree with an exercise pen to create a see-through barrier, or hang decorations higher up on the branches where little paws cannot reach. Avoid the lower branches as tinsel, ribbon and ornaments can be especially dangerous should they be swallowed by your pet (tinsel is not toxic but if ingested can cause choking or intestinal obstruction). It is also a good idea to anchor or secure your Christmas tree to a adjacent wall to prevent your cat or dog from knocking it over. Lit candles can also be knocked over by an excited pet so be sure to keep them out of range.

If your tree has been sprayed with insecticides or chemicals to extend the life of the tree, be aware that they may be poisonous to pets. Make sure you cover the treated area with a screen or some sort of barrier method. These chemicals can also get into the water of the tree base so ensure that your pet does not drink from the stand. Be sure to hide electrical cords in routed PVC pipe to avoid uninvited chewing and electric shock. Coat the wiring in bitter apple or another safe chew deterrent if necessary.

A number of seasonal plants should also be kept out of the reach of pets: ivy, holly, mistletoe, poinsettias, balsam, juniper, Jerusalem Cherry, cedar, pine, fir, and hibiscus to name a few. All have varying degrees of poisoning from moderate to toxic if nibbled or eaten. Human food and beverages can also pose a risk to our pets. Rum laced eggnog, beer, and chocolate are commonly enjoyed at this time of year, but they can be lethal if ingested by our furry companions. The same holds true for poultry (hidden splintered bones), rich seasonings, stock, animal fat, and foods off the table in general, which can easily upset an animal’s digestive system. Finally, be especially cautious if pets are underfoot in the kitchen while you are cooking your holiday meals; tripping over pet with a hot container can cause severe scalding and burns to both you and your loved one.

As a safe alternative source of interest, give pets a few of their favorite pet treats or toys during special meals or gatherings. Keeping pets away from the front door during parties and gatherings, and leaving a room available where they can “escape” the noise and congestion of group functions, are good precautions should your pet be easily overwhelmed. Insure your pet wears a valid animal license tag just in case he or she slips outside through an open door or window.

In terms of gift giving, avoid choosing pets as gifts at Christmas. The hustle and bustle of the holidays is not a good time to introduce a new family member and can be downright scary for a little one. If someone you know is planning to acquire a pet, gifts such as pet supplies, food and accessories allow the prospective pet owner to get prepared, and give them the time to select a pet of their choice for this life-long commitment. Another excellent gift, and way to teach children generosity toward those less fortunate, is a visit to your local animal shelter, which is always in need of donations of food and toys.

Overall, don’t forget to spend quality time with your pet during this festive season. If traveling, try and keep regular feeding and exercise routines whenever possible. Long walks and playtimes are excellent de-stressors for both you and your pet. From everyone at Pets Can Stay whether travelling or entertaining at home, have a joyous and safe holiday!