As the Holiday season approaches and new things become introduced to the home, it’s important to remember that not all Holiday festivities are safe for our pets. Freedom Fur wants to share with you a few helpful tips when navigating the holiday season as a pet owner. Holiday foods, decorations and plants can be dangerous and increased noises/ gatherings can be frightening.
No begging at the table. Refrain from feeding from the table, holiday baking and cooking usually includes a lot of no-no ingredients for your pets. Having a conversation with your guests about your “pet house rules” can make navigating the holidays easier. Make sure decorations are secured so they are not easily knocked down. Allow for a clear pathway for your animal to travel through the house. Try to limit moving/ decorating your animals’ space or making too many changes at once. Their space should feel unaffected by the holiday season to avoid any upset pets. Ornaments, tinsel and other holiday decorations can be seen as toys or treats to pets, so make sure they are out of reach. Supervising and introducing your pet to the holiday essentials will limit their interest.
Holiday plants can also be toxic to your pets. Before bringing any plant into your home, do your research. Not all plants that are harmful to our pets are harmful to humans. Keeping plants such as amaryllis, mistletoe, poinsettias, pine needles, and holly can be dangerous and are toxic. Each plant varies in level of potency however if your pet consumes your holiday plants and is showing abnormal signs such as diarrhea or vomiting- please consult your local veterinarian.
It is common for the household to become busier. Holidays often bring larger groups of people together which can be intimidating for your pet if it’s not used to it. Be sure your pet has access to a quiet, safe place should they want to be alone. If your pet is not comfortable with visitors, make sure to take time to properly introduce your pet as strangers arrive. Do not rush the process and allow for time between introductions. The influx of activity can be very overwhelming for a pet. It’s also important to consider that all doors leading outside are secure, and to pay attention when guests enter/ exit. Having a conversation with your guests about your “pet house rules” can make navigating the holidays easier. Happy Holidays!