The holiday season is merry and bright for us humans, but it can sometimes be overwhelming and dangerous for our pets. As we celebrate, it’s important to consider each special event or new addition to your home through the eyes of your furry friends.

What may seem perfectly safe and fun could pose a serious threat to your pets. But the good news is that you can easily educate yourself and plan ahead to ensure a happy and healthy holiday season for all.

Take a few minutes to read and share our top holiday pet safety tips:

DON’T…

• Leave lit candles unattended.
• Add tinsel to your tree, especially if you have cats.
• Allow pets to access holiday food, particularly onions, garlic, grapes, raisins, xylitol, spicy food, meat with bones, chocolate or foods containing raw egg.
• Use potpourri or scented oil warmers, which can accidentally be ingested by pets.
• Put holiday plants like mistletoe, holly, lilies or poinsettias within reach of your pets.
• Leave ribbons, bows or wrapping paper laying around.
• Put lights and ornaments on lower branches of your Christmas tree where your pet can reach.
• Use glass light bulbs – opt for plastic instead.
• Leave loose wires in reach of your pets – instead, always tape to a wall or ceiling.
• Let pets drink water from the bottom of your Christmas tree – keep it covered to avoid danger.
• Give pets as presents unless it’s something that’s been discussed, agreed upon and planned beforehand.

DO…

• Give your pets a quiet, safe place to escape the chaos of decorating, parties, cooking and guests.
• Keep guests’ purses and coats in a secure place so that your pets can’t access dangerous items like medication and gum.
• Place your Christmas tree in a corner so that it’s not as easily accessible.
• Clean up fallen pine needles frequently.
• Use electric candles to avoid any possible danger with flames.
• Designate one room for gift wrapping and keep it closed off to pets.
• Clean up right away after gift opening.
• Buy your pets safe holiday gifts to give them something fun to do while your family plays with their new toys.
• Inform guests about pet-safe behavior when greeting, petting, playing, opening outside doors and feeding.
• Remember to check in on your pet frequently during holiday gatherings.
• Feed a special meal to your pet during the time your family sits down for a holiday feast – not only is this a sweet gesture, but it will help prevent them from begging at your table.
• Call or visit your nearest emergency veterinarian if you’re ever concerned about your pet during the holidays.

We love our work, but we know that no one wants to spend their holidays here with us. It’s much nicer to be home, surrounded by happy and healthy pets and family members.

So, please keep these tips in mind and don’t hesitate to get in touch if you’re ever concerned about your pet’s health.