The holidays are some of the best days of the year with our pack. There are more people, more food and more excitement, and that also means more chances for a curious nose to find trouble. With Thor, Lex, Harley and Ava in the house, we've learned to plan ahead.
Here's what we watch for every season.
Holiday foods to keep away from pets
Some of the most common holiday treats are the most dangerous for dogs and cats:
- Chocolate, especially dark and baking chocolate
- Anything with xylitol, a sweetener found in some sugar-free gum, candy, baked goods and even peanut butter
- Grapes, raisins and currants, including in fruitcake, stuffing and cookies
- Onions and garlic, which show up in gravy, stuffing and many side dishes
- Fatty scraps and turkey or ham skin, which can upset stomachs or worse
- Cooked bones, which can splinter
- Alcohol and raw yeast dough
The easiest rule in our house: no table scraps, and plates never sit on the coffee table. Let guests know too, since most people don't realize what's harmful.
Holiday plants
- Lilies are very dangerous for cats. Even a small amount of the plant or pollen can cause serious kidney problems. We don't bring them into the house at all.
- Mistletoe and holly can make pets sick if they chew them.
- Poinsettias usually cause only mild stomach upset, but it's still best to keep them up high.
Decorations and the tree
- Tinsel, ribbon and string look like toys to pets, and they can cause dangerous blockages if swallowed. Cats especially love them.
- Low ornaments get batted, knocked down and chewed. Keep breakable and food-shaped ornaments up high.
- Light cords can be tempting to chew. Tuck them away or cover them.
- Tree water can contain fertilizer and bacteria. Cover the stand so pets can't drink from it.
- Candles and wagging tails don't mix. Keep flames out of reach.
Guests, gifts and busy days
- With doors opening and closing, it's easy for a dog to slip out. Make sure collars and ID tags are on and up to date.
- Give your pets a quiet room to retreat to if the crowd gets to be too much.
- Wrapped gifts with food inside (chocolate, nuts, treats) shouldn't sit under the tree. Dogs will find them.
- Try to keep meals and walks on their usual schedule.
If your pet eats something harmful
Call your veterinarian or an emergency vet right away, even if your pet seems fine. You can also call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 (a consultation fee may apply). Acting quickly makes a big difference.
A free checklist to keep on the fridge
Our Pawliday Gift & Budget Planner comes with a free Holiday Pet Safety Checklist, so you can print it and stick it right where your guests will see it. The planner also helps you budget for Christmas gifts for both the people and the pets on your list.
Looking for safe ways to spoil your dog this season? Take a look at our Christmas gifts for dogs.
Happy and safe holidays from all of us at Nana Dee'z Pet Co.