While people are ho-ho-ho-ing
and hustling and bustling, pets
may not be as enamored with
the holiday season as their human
counterparts. That’s because, amid the
blur of activities that fill the season,
there are potential sources of stress and
dangers to pets.
What can be so dangerous about
holiday festivities and decorations? A
lot, according to veterinarians and pet
advocacy experts. The ASPCA, among
other groups, warns of the toxic items and
unhealthy treats that abound this time
of year. Approximately 1,300 people are
treated each year in emergency rooms for
injuries related to holiday lights. Another
6,200 are treated for injuries related to
holiday decorations and Christmas trees.
These injuries are occurring to people who
know better. Just think about the pets that
do not understand the dangers around
them. Pet parents have to be responsible
for their animals’ safety, too.
Know What’s Toxic
Everything from snow globes to tinsel can
wreak havoc on pets’ delicate intestinal
systems. Many holiday plants, like holly
and poinsettia, contain oils that can be
fatal to pets if consumed. Snow globes
often contain antifreeze, which is well
known as toxic to pets. Snow sprays and
��������������������������������������������������������������������������������
irritants if inhaled or consumed. Tinsel
and pine needles can cause choking and
intestinal obstruction if consumed by
smaller animals, like cats and rodents.
Decorating Dangers
Decorative glassware, trinkets and other
breakables can prove hazardous to
animals. Inquisitive dogs and cats may
break glass ornaments and be cut by
shards of glass. It’s easy for lit candles
to be knocked over and even Christmas
trees to be pulled down by boisterous
pets. Water kept in Christmas tree stands
and other décor may harbor harmful
microorganisms or chemicals that become
dangerous if lapped up. Cords and lights
may look like chew toys to rodents, dogs
and cats, who can become electrocuted or
strangled while investigating.
Goodie Gluttony
Many pets have stolen a piece of people
food from here or there or have been
offered some table scraps. There are
some items that can be dangerous during
the holidays and year round. Beware
of feeding pets fatty meats, gravies,
poultry skin, poultry bones, chocolate,
and alcohol. These items can cause
illnesses from vomiting and diarrhea to
highly serious pancreatitis and other toxic
reactions. Remove trash from the house
regularly while entertaining to ensure pets
don’t get inside of garbage cans and trash
bags to steal scraps. When eating, keep
pets out of the dining area and maintain
a close eye on scavengers who might leap
for dishes at the edges of tables. Gifts, like
food baskets and boxes of chocolates,
should be kept out of reach of pets. Buy
pet-safe treats this time of year to reward
animals so they will not be inclined to
steal snacks.
Holiday Stress
Having a houseful of people can be stressful on
pets who are not used to the company. Talk with
a veterinarian to see if a mild sedative or antianxiety
medication might be helpful. Otherwise,
keep pets contained in a quiet room away
from guests if they are prone to skittishness.
Try to keep feeding and watering schedules
consistent so the pets will have the comfort of
their routines. Be sure to spend time with the
animals so they are not feeling neglected while
you’re running here and there.
The holidays can be a wonderful time of year to
share with your pets, but safety should never
be too far out of mind when preparing for the
season.
Christmas
PETS
Holiday safety for pets