Decorations
Decorations are to be secure and not easily accessible. To our pets, these may look like fun and/or tasty options. String and tinsel can be harmful if swallowed – if your pet is known to get into mischief maybe keep these items out of your holiday decor. Make sure electrical cords are tucked away – pets can get into trouble if they chew on the cords and become electrocuted. Pets should always be supervised around candles and open flames.
Plants
Christmas trees should be secured so they don’t tip over and fall. Stagnant water can be a great breeding ground for bacteria that can make your pet sick if ingested so keep your pets away! Pine needles may cause vomiting, gastrointestinal pain, or if enough are eaten, an obstruction in the GI tract. Mistletoe and Holly can cause gastrointestinal upset if ingested and Mistletoe can also have cardiovascular side effects. Poinsettias are mostly a gastrointestinal irritant but can cause vomiting if a large amount is ingested. If you’re constantly pulling your curious creatures out of your gardens or plants, then maybe opt for the fake versions of these.
Food and Drinks
Rich and fatty foods your pet is not used to can put them at risk of vomiting, diarrhea, or pancreatitis. Keep chocolate, onions, garlic, anything containing xylitol, and macadamia nuts out of reach and behind closed doors. Our counter surfers never take the holidays off! If we are enjoying some mixed drinks with friends and family, make sure the alcohol is appropriately stored overnight – you don’t want the party to continue after you have gone to bed.
For more holiday safety tips, you can visit the ASPCA website.
About The Author
Dr. Jen Lassler | I was born in the Los Angeles area where I grew up with my mom, older brother, and 2 (very large and furry) mixed breed dogs. “Pumpkin” and “Barkey” were my best friends and, when I was 5, we took them to our veterinarian to get their vaccines. They were tough cookies, and didn’t cry at the doctor the way I did. I knew I wanted to help animals feel better and prevent them from getting sick. Mostly, I just wanted to be surrounded by dogs and cats! Every Career Day at school, ‘veterinarian’ stayed at the top of my list…followed by baker and private eye.
Learn more about Dr. Lassler on the “Meet Our Doctors” page.