Cozy Holidays: Tips for Pet-Friendly Homes

Pet owners know, usually from unfortunate experiences, that pet-proofing is a year-round challenge. The practice of removing items from a pet’s environment that have potential to impact health and safety. Pet-proofing is as necessary as the seasons change. 

The holidays present some highly specific risks to pets. From toxic foods to escape hazards, poisonous plants to stress or anxiety, pet-proofing can be a daily battle this time of year. Our holiday pet safety tips aim to keep your pet out of harm’s way so that you can make special memories together.

Finding a Balance

Many pet owners naturally question how to approach holiday pet safety. For some, the answer lies in keeping a pet cordoned off from any possible holiday hazards. For others, the process involves a delicate balance to include a pet in family gatherings or holiday events while prioritizing their absolute health and safety. 

It’s not always easy or straightforward, but holiday pet safety strategies are essential to their well-being (and your peace of mind). Since veterinary emergencies spike this time of year, we offer some ways to pet-proof your home.

The Tree and Other Greens

Due to some fairly obvious reasons, pet owners may decide that an artificial tree is the best choice for their pet. Either way, ensure pet safety in these ways:

• Secure the tree to a back wall or corner in case your pet likes to jump or climb it. You could also hook the top of the tree to the ceiling to reduce the risk of toppling. 
• Cover the tree stand so they cannot drink the water. Trees can leach harmful fertilizers or pesticides into the water.
• Be sure that all cords and string lights are off the floor.
• Tighten ornament hooks to reduce falls and breaks. 
• Imagine how your pet sees the tree; remove items that appear tantalizing. 
• Tinsel, string, and ribbon are highly dangerous. 

Holiday plants like holly, poinsettias, and mistletoe can be extremely harmful to pet health. Only bring these into the home if you have a safe place to display them. 

Family, Friends, and Others 

If you are hosting a holiday party this year, gauge whether or not you think your pet can safely handle company. 

• Fashion a room away from the crowd for your pet to retreat to. Warm, cozy bedding, fresh water, white noise, low lighting, and healthy snacks can make a pet feel calm and in control. 
• Exercise your pet thoroughly before the party begins. 
• If you think your pet would feel better away from a crowd, hire a boarding facility or a pet sitter for the night to keep them safe and happy. 

Many pets enjoy company and can navigate the unpredictable world of family gatherings. Request that your guests never offer your pet food or let them outside without permission. 

Holiday Foods

The very foods that characterize the holiday season are often the ones responsible for pet poisonings. Rich, fatty foods (like butter, gravy, or turkey skin) can cause pancreatitis. Bones can lead to choking or GI obstruction. The following foods should always be safely displayed and stored to prevent accidental ingestion:

• Garlic, chives, onion
• Grapes or raisins
• Nuts
• Chocolate
• Alcohol
• Caffeine
• Xylitol

December Pet Care

One of the best ways to promote holiday pet safety is to keep up their daily routine. Meals, bathroom breaks, and exercise times should occur at the same times every day to reduce holiday-related stress and anxiety. 

If you need us during the busy holiday season, please give us a call at 916-349-2755. Our team at Cherry Creek Veterinary Hospital is always here for your pet.