Your days are sure to be merry and bright if everyone you love, including your pet, is safe and happy. Read through our pet holiday safety reminders to be sure that you ring in 2017 in good cheer.
Party Animals
During this time of year, it is not uncommon for our homes to be bustling with visiting friends and family. When you include your pets in this mix, don’t forget to be sure that they are safe and comfortable. Some important pet holiday safety reminders when it comes to celebrations include:
- Provide your pets with a retreat from visitors and commotion, such as a crate or bedroom in a quiet, private location.
- Double check information on collars and ensure that your pet’s microchip is up-to-date in case an accidental escape happens during the comings and goings of the season.
- Keep your guests’ coats, bags, and purses in a location secure from curious pets who may find a tempting tidbit to chew on.
- Stow away trash cans and compost bins, or use pet-proof lids.
- Remind family and friends not to feed your animals when they are visiting to avoid upset tummies, accidental poisonings, and pancreatitis.
- Put gifts containing food or smelly objects out of the reach of curious pets who may decide to open presents prematurely and help themselves.
- Ribbons, tinsel, and electrical cords can all be dangerous décor.
- Be sure lit candles and wax melts are not within the reach of pets.
Some pets enjoy celebrating along with us, but if your furry family friend seems nervous or scared, it may be best to allow him or her some space.
Pet Holiday Safety Reminders for Feasting
Many items that we feast on during this time of year are not safe or ideal for pets to consume. It is probably best to avoid table food in general, but particularly items containing chocolate, Xylitol, grapes or raisins, yeast-based doughs, and fatty foods like bacon, butter, or gravy.
If you want to include your pet in the holiday feasting, consider buying or making a special pet-specific treat for the day or offer a small amount of lean poultry (no skin or fat!), a tablespoon of canned pumpkin, a small amount of sweet potato (skip the butter), or some plain green beans.
Fun and Safe Gifting
Of course when it comes to holiday gifts, you are going to want to include your pets. Remember to limit excess treats to avoid unwanted digestive upset (and weight gain). Choose toys that cannot easily be destroyed and eaten. Durable rubber toys with an opening at each end to prevent choking, like a Kong, make great gifts for even aggressive chewers.
Practical gifts, such as a new collar, a dog park membership, a grooming session, or even that dental cleaning you have been putting off, are great ways to celebrate with your pet as well.
We at Berkeley Veterinary Center want you and your pets to have a great season. Be sure to follow our pet holiday safety reminders so that your holidays are happy.
Tags: Holiday Pet Safety, Keeping Pets Safe, Pet Safety, Pet Safety Reminders