Pet Talk
Planning Ahead for Holiday Safety
By Frances Goodman
‘Tis the season for parties, family gatherings and holiday feasts! But it’s also a time to be especially aware of pet safety.
Risks are a little higher as guests come and go, rich foods are served and tempting decorations are within paws’ reach. Ribbons and paper seem like great playthings, but if ingested they can cause serious intestinal blockage.
Here are some safety checkpoints for all pet lovers to keep in mind during this festive time of year:
The Tree – Be sure the holiday tree is securely anchored, and won’t tip or fall if pets get playful on it or under it. Be especially sure pets can’t access the tree water, which may contain toxic fertilizers and will harbor bacteria when it becomes stagnant.
The Tinsel— Kitties and playful pups love this sparkly “toy” that’s easy to bat around and carry in their mouths. Icicles are tempting, too, due to their resemblance to grass. But a nibble can lead to a swallow, which can lead to an obstructed digestive tract and emergency surgery. With pets in the family, it’s best to decorate with something other than tinsel and icicles.
The Drinks — If you’re serving cocktails, be sure pets cannot gain access to them. Ingestion of alcoholic beverages can be extremely dangerous, even fatal.
The Flowers — Lilies, which are popular in bouquets and as gifts at this time of year, are extremely toxic to cats if ingested. And cats are naturally tempted to nibble on greenery and flowers.
The Feasting — By now most pet lovers know not to feed pets chocolate or anything sweetened with xylitol. But pets can still put themselves at risk by scarfing holiday food from unattended plates or open garbage cans. Sweets, fatty and spicy foods, as well as bones, can cause serious intestinal problems. Prevention is the key!
The Presents – Puppy and kitty love says we must not put presents containing food or candy under the tree, even if they seem to be securely boxed and wrapped. Paper and cardboard are no match for a determined pet, and sensitive noses can tell exactly what’s inside the bright package. Gorging on the candy or goodies when no one is near can have a tragic result, or at best an expensive one, after the vet bills.
Here are some more holiday safety reminders, compliments of the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA):
Pet Gifts – Be sure to choose toys and treats that are safe. Stick with chew toys that are basically indestructible. The most risky toys for cats involve ribbon, yarn and loose little parts that can get stuck in the intestines, often resulting in the need for surgery. Consider a stuffed catnip toy or the interactive cat dancer toy, all for use under supervision.
(And your PetTalk columnist recommends avoiding treats made in China, especially chicken jerky, which has a history of causing health problems for pets.)
Mistletoe and Holly—Both, if ingested, can cause gastrointestinal upset. Mistletoe can also cause cardiovascular problems.
Candles – Don’t leave them unattended. Pets as well as kids are at risk for burning themselves or causing a fire. A good rule of thumb: If you leave the room put the candle out.
Wires, Batteries and Ornaments – Playing with these can result in shocks, burns or injury to the mouth.
House Rules – When you have guests, be sure they know the rules: Petting or play sessions are fine, but no treats or food.
Meds — Remind guests to keep their medicines zipped up and packed away from curious pets.
A Room of Their Own — Give your pet his own quiet space to retreat to — complete with fresh water and a place to snuggle. Shy pups and cats might want to hide out under a piece of furniture, in their crate or in a separate room away from the hubbub.
Now we are prepared for safe and happy holidays! Best wishes of the season to you and your pets!
Frances Goodman is a professional dog obedience trainer and pet care writer. Got a question? Email her at [email protected]. See her ad this page.