Pet Safety 101: Protecting Your Pets From Hidden Holiday Hazards

Once again, it's the season to be jolly and merry. For pet parents, it's also the season to be careful. Pets think that your holiday decor is there to serve as their playthings. Nothing is more enticing than a dangling ornament or a twinkling light. Here are a few tips and tricks to keep your doggos and cattos thinking you placed them there as an invitation to the world's most exciting obstacle course.

The Great Tree Adventure

To you, it's a Christmas tree. To your cat and dog, it's a tower of adventure waiting to be explored. It's a playground with colorful baubles, dangling tinsel, and inviting branches. What we have here is the ultimate climbing challenge! Of course, their instincts will drive them to bite, scratch, and even perch on the top!

The only way your tree will survive this is for you to secure it. You can try anchoring it to a wall using a fishing line or any sturdy cord. Place it in a heavy and stable stand, surrounding its base with a decorative fence or barrier for good measure. 

In addition, your determined climber may see your tree's water reservoir as a place to quench their thirst after conquering it. While we may not totally prevent them from doing so, it's good to avoid using chemicals or additives in the water. Or, you can add a few drops of lemon or orange essential oil that are sure to deter them from taking a sip.

On the other hand, if it's the tree skirt that has become the battleground, it's best if you choose one that can withstand all the playful tugging. Secure it with weights or clips to prevent it from being dragged.

Deck the Halls Safely!

Cats are naturally attracted to all things shiny and glittery, especially if they come in the form of strings. This is why tinsels are so exciting for the kitties; they think they're a great snack option. To prevent this from happening, use alternatives such as ribbons or paper garlands.

String Lights Situation

Now, the string lights are another story. It can transform your home into a festive wonderland, sure, but your pets won't see it that way. To them, these are strings of chew toys that are just irresistible, a holiday must-have, if you will. Here's what you can do:

• Tape them down using adhesive hooks or cord clips and secure them on walls or furniture.
• Use protective covers or tubing to prevent chewing.
• Place them higher up the tree to keep them out of your pets' reach.
• Use a bitter spray that is safe for pets to discourage them from chewing.

Ornament Placement Strategy

You don't hang the ornaments where you feel like it, you have to have a strategy in place. This is where you must think like your mischievous pet. Secure them (the ornaments) high up on the tree where your pets can't reach them. The more precious the ornaments are, the higher their position in the tree.

Moreover, it's a good idea to avoid hanging edible ornaments like candy canes or popcorn, you'd just be tempting them more. Also, if you can, use shatterproof ornaments only or hang them on lower branches. And, instead of securing them (the ornaments) with metal hooks, use ribbons and twines that are safer yet still look festive.

The Gift Wrapping Saga

A task as simple as wrapping your gifts can be a holiday hazard for pets. Wavy and colorful ribbons are often irresistible to pets, especially kitties. To keep curious paws safe, choose cloth ribbons. These are less likely to cause harm if chewed or swallowed than plastic or metallic ones. 

You may also want to use non-toxic wrapping paper instead of plastic bags. Remember to monitor your pets while wrapping gifts and ensure that you clean up promptly afterward. Dispose of scraps or other packaging materials that your pets can reach.

Holiday Plants and Potpourri

A big part of decorating your home for Christmas is adding holiday plants. Be sure to only use pet-friendly plants such as the following:

• Christmas Cactus: Its bright blooms can add a festive touch
• Spider Plant: Gives a vibrant Christmassy green
• Bamboo: If you want to add elegance to your decor
• Roses: Use them in festive arrangements
• Herbs such as Rosemary, thyme, and basil

Below are the plants you must avoid:

• Mistletoe: Can cause stomach upset and cardiovascular problems for cats and dogs
• Holly: Can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy
• Lilies: Can cause kidney failure in cats
• Amaryllis: Can cause drooling, nausea, and tremors

Create a Pet-Safe Zone

To keep your pets out of the way when decorating and away from your decorations, why not build them their own winter wonderland? Create a dedicated pet-safe zone for the holidays to keep them happy and safe during this season of merriment. Designate a quiet area away from the main hustle and bustle where they can retreat.

Decorate this space with their pet-safe toys, blankets, and even non-toxic plants. You can use artificial plants that are safer, cheaper, and require low maintenance. Use pet gates or barriers to keep them out of areas with fragile decor or where your gift wrapping is happening.

What to Do When Pets Win (Emergency Prepping)

In the unfortunate event that your pets win against your holiday decorations and festivities, it helps to know where to get help. 

Signs your pet may have gotten into something:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Loss of appetite
• Lethargy or weakness
• Unusual behavior (seizures, tremors, hyperactivity)
• Pale or yellowish gums
• Bloody or discolored stool or urine
• Excessive thirst or urination

Write down the contact information of the nearest emergency vets in your area and their holiday hours, if any. Place it in a prominent place for easy access. You may also want to add the following:

• Pet Poison Helpline: Available 24/7 at 855-764-7661 for advice on potential poisoning cases.
• ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center: Available 24/7 at 888-426-4435 for advice on potential poisoning cases.

It would also help if you prepare an emergency kit with the following:

• First aid supplies: bandages, gauze, antiseptic wipes, tweezers
• Medications: any prescription medications your pets have and a copy of their medical record, if any
• Hydration and nutrition: bottled water, a can opener, pet food, and a portable water bowl
• Comfort items: a favorite toy, blanket, or pillow
• Transportation: a pet carrier or harness

Keeping the holiday magic is also about keeping everyone joyous and safe, these pet safety tips are sure you will spend them in style without worrying about safety. Enjoy!