The lights are shining; the carols are being sung, and your dog is knee-deep in a pile of tinsel. Yikes! Holiday festivities are meant to be merry, bright, and filled with love to share with family and friends. However, for our furry friends, a proactive approach is required to keep them safe, happy, and healthy.
Here are some tips to pet-proof your home for the holidays!
Check the Plants
While plants can enhance your decorating style, many are toxic to animals.
Amaryllis
This beautiful bulb plant is often purchased and grown at home, and it is very common during the winter months. For dogs specifically, if they eat the bulb, it can cause an intestinal blockage. Chewing on the flowers and leaves can also lead to diarrhea, abdominal pain, vomiting, depression, and tremors.
Holly/Mistletoe
Nothing is more beautiful than holly strung around your house, with the lights twinkling and the smell of Christmas in the air! But did you know that holly and mistletoe, if chewed, can cause depression, diarrhea, and vomiting? If you choose to use these in your decor, put them up high where pets can’t reach them.
Lilies
While lilies are commonly featured in many winter floral centerpieces, including those for Easter, Japanese Snow, Day, and Tiger varieties, they are highly toxic to cats. Not just one part of the plant is dangerous; all of it is. If ingested, it can lead to life-threatening kidney damage. If you own a cat, avoid bringing any lilies into your home.
Trees and Tinsel and Treats – oh my!
Depending on your decor, many families choose a tree as the centerpiece for Christmas decorations. If you decide to set up a fake tree, that’s great! There’s no immediate danger to your pets from an artificial tree. However, if your family prefers a real tree, opt for a fir or spruce instead of a pine. Pine trees are toxic to cats and can cause intestinal issues. Keep your pets away from the water in which the tree is standing, as sprays and pesticides can leak into the water and cause upset stomachs if ingested.
If you love the way tinsel looks on your tree, it might disappoint you to learn that tinsel is one of the worst things for pets to eat. If swallowed, tinsel can clog the intestines and may require surgery if it doesn’t pass naturally. Both dogs and cats tend to play with tinsel, so it’s best to keep it out of reach or not have it in your house during the holidays.
Less Lighting is More
Lights are classic and essential for decorating! They shine beautifully and add a warm glow to your home. While lights shouldn’t be completely eliminated, hang them thoughtfully throughout your house. Avoid placing them on lower branches where curious paws and mouths might reach, and protect the cord closest to the wall outlet with a chew-safe wrap.
Limit Access
For the most mischievous animals, use baby gates in heavily decorated areas of your home. If your pets can be confined to a specific room when you leave the house, that’s best to reduce any risk of them eating or chewing something they shouldn’t. Watch them when you’re home, and keep your baby gate ready!
If you’ll be out of town during this season, we’d love to watch your pets and ensure they receive all the love they need. Contact us today to discuss options for your pets (our sitters will ensure they don’t end up on the naughty list!).
