Responsible people know that the holidays are not only exciting but can be stressful not only for us, but for our furry friends as well. It should come to no surprise that our pets begin to exhibit “uncharacteristic” behavior throughout this time of year. The excitement, inevitable excess treats, table scraps, distractions and in general chaos may trigger it. They may become fearful, protective, aggressive, and or even soil in the house.

This simple list of Winter and Holiday Hazards for Your Pets could help us all be a little more aware of our pet’s safety, not only throughout the holiday season, but throughout the cold winter months as well.

You take the time to “child proof” your home, why not “pet proof” it too? Please take a moment to read this list and share it with other pet owners so that you and your pet have a safe and wonderful winter season.

HOLIDAY HAZARDS:
•Broken glass balls can cut your pets. Use unbreakable plastic or wooden ornaments if you find you can’t keep your pets clear of the tree.
•Replace metal ornament hooks with ribbon or fabric.
•Tinsel and garlands, if ingested, can cause choking, vomiting or diarrhea. Avoid tinsel and place garland out of reach.
•Electrical wires often get chewed and cause serious burns or death. You can minimize this by tucking the wires along the wall and under carpet.
•The tree should be anchored to the wall or ceiling with some strong fishing line or light rope. If a real tree is chosen, cover the water reservoir so the pets cannot drink out of it. The tree sap will cause stomach upset.
•Poinsettias, mistletoe, holly berries and evergreen may not be hazardous to your pets’ health. But if eaten, they could become ill.
•People food is not healthy for your pet. Leftovers, fatty foods and turkey are a recipe for disaster. It causes stomach upset, vomiting and diarrhea and can lead to Pancreatitis.
•Be aware of the nut and candy dishes that are easily accessible to the pets. They can easily jump up on any table or counter and gorge themselves.
•Chocolate is one of the more abundant treats at this time of year and it is very toxic. If eaten in large amounts, it can cause problems in the nervous system.
•Many people enjoy the sweetness of holiday drinks containing alcohol. They are very tempting and can make our pets very sick.
•Inform your guests of house the rules that you have in place for your pets. Just because it’s the holidays, it doesn’t mean that the rules can be broken.
•If you dog or cat is an escape artist, be sure that your pet is wearing a collar and I.D.
•Pick up all small pieces of games and toys that may be lying around. These little items are not only great entertainment for the children but are a chocking hazard for your pet.
•For the safety of your pets and your guests, especially if you have an unpredictable dog or cat, it may be best to put them in a dark and quiet room or in a crate for the evening.
•Fireworks are a part of the New Year’s celebration. Our pets are not as enthusiastic as we are when it comes to this form of entertainment. So keep them from getting over anxious, you can discuss the matter with your vet and get a mild sedative or you can use a more natural approach.

WINTER HAZARDS
•Antifreeze (Ethylene Glycol) has a sweet taste which appeals to our pets. It is highly toxic which can lead to a slow and painful death. Try the pet and child safe product called Sierra Antifreeze.
•Be sure to keep your dog and cats indoors in stormy weather
•Outdoor pets and livestock require shelter from the wind, snow, rain and cold. They should have access to fresh water and food at all times.
•Straw-like bedding is great for smaller animals
•Check for ice in the paddocks and fields. By limiting access to those areas, you will save your pet a broken leg and an expensive trip to the vet for you.
•Salt and chemicals used for melting the ice can harm the pads of your pets feet and cause vomiting if ingested. Wiping them clean when they come in from outside will help you avoid such problems.
•Bang on the hood of any vehicle prior to starting the engine. Cats and other critters crawl under the hood in search of warmth and shelter from the elements.
•Rat and mouse toxins are used more often in the winter months. These are toxic and can be hazardous to your pets health

Bottom line: Planning ahead and taking necessary preparations and precautions will make the holidays more enjoyable and less stressful for you and your pets. Remember the most important part of the holiday season is to enjoy and cherish the time spent with your loved ones and that includes your special furry friends.

Thinking about buying your pet a Gift this Christmas? Check out our great gift ideas at our Amazon Store.

I hope this list of Winter and Holiday Hazards for Your Pets is helpful to you and that you and your pets have a safe and wonderful holiday season.

Happy Holidays!
Nicole
www.VetReviewsOnline.com

PS…Do you believe in Wishes? Here is a site that you may want to check out! www.WishesDoComeTrue.ca. You never know what can happen!!!