Christmas is right around the corner, and as you’re busy decorating your home and wrapping presents for loved ones, keep the safety of your four-legged family members in mind. Every year, Willard Vet sees pets unnecessarily injured by holiday decorations, but if you follow a few simple tips, it should be a happy and healthy holiday for all members of your family.

Christmas Trees

· Keep your pet from drinking the tree water. Your tree may have dangerous preservatives or chemicals on it that can get into the water.

· Instead of hanging ornaments with hooks that can be easily swallowed, secure them to your tree with lengths of yarn or ribbon.

· Attach your tree to a wall or the ceiling to keep it from toppling if your curious kitty decides to climb.

Decorations

· Avoid using angel hair or tinsel, which can cause intestinal blockages if a pet ingests them.

· Keep candles and heated oils out of reach. Cats are particularly apt to seek out the warmth and light of candles.

· Remember that many holiday plants, including holly, mistletoe, and poinsettias, are poisonous if ingested. Use imitation plants, or keep real ones out of your pet’s reach.

· Make sure that ribbons are attached securely to packages. If a pet removes and eats them, it can cause dangerous intestinal blockages.

Holiday Treats

· Make sure your pets are fed before a party to help them keep from begging for holiday foods that aren’t good for them.

· Pets are attracted to sweet holiday drinks, but alcohol is particularly dangerous for them and can be fatal. Make sure to keep glasses away from animals.

· It may be tempting, but don’t give your pets leftover bones after Christmas dinner. They pose a choking hazard.

We at Willard Vet wish a happy, healthy, and safe holiday season to all of our patients and their families!

By: Willard Vet