Holiday Hazards

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pet_christmaslights.jpgKeeping your pet safe during the holidays

By Beth J. Bates

The holidays can a busy time with a lot of hustle and bustle. Family buzzes into town. Delicious Christmas pies and cookies are being left on plates all over the living room. Melt-in-your-mouth chocolates are gifted from family and friends. Sounds good, right?

Just remember that our four-legged friends don't recognize that the bowl of chocolate covered cherries isn't the safest thing to eat. Pay special attention to your pets during this busy time to ensure their safety and well-being.
Unfortunately, pets can't differentiate between food and items that are OK for them and things that are bad. All they see (or smell or taste) is yummy food - shiny tree - open door. During the holidays, and particularly during group festivities, its important to keep an eye on your pets. Here are a few tips that we use in our home.

  • Although poinsettias are not deemed to be toxic to pets, we still keep them out of reach of munchy dog and cat mouths. Better safe than sorry. Mistletoe is toxic to pets, so keep that out of reach as well.

  • Our dogs (especially George) are notorious counter surfers, so all food, cookies and candy are placed out of doggie reach. And when we think those chocolates are safe, we move them a little further away. Chocolate can be lethal to pets and no matter how "safe" we think we are, its never good enough.

  • Be aware of small objects that pets can put in their mouths. Its inevitable that we open a box and a tiny part falls on the floor. Dogs and cats are like Hoover vacuums. Pick up small objects off the floor and furniture to be safe.

  • If you are hosting guests or a holiday party, be conscious of the stress level of your pets. Put them in a quiet room during the party. Ensure that pets and guests are comfortable together. Be sure that external doors are kept closed. We've experienced one holiday escape and I'm here to say - it's no fun.

  • Don't let your dog drink the water from the Christmas tree stand - it could be tainted with bacteria or plant food.

  • Keep an eye on pets around candles and liquid potpourri pots.

Other ingestible items that can be poisonous to pets...

  • Antifreeze 
  • Chocolate and candy
  • Acetaminophen and non-steroidal anti-inflammatories 
  • Prescription or illegal drugs 
  • Rodenticides 
  • Xylitol (sugarless sweetener)
  • Grapes and raisins 
  • Onions and garlic 
  • Lilies
  • Macadamia nuts
With a little careful planning, your holiday season will be happy and safe for you and your pets!

Wishing you and yours a VERY merry Christmas from our zoo to yours.

Best Wishes,
Beth & Mark
Katie, Willy, Max and Gorgeous George
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