Have a safe vacation with your pet
Isn’t it wonderful to put up a beautiful tree, decorate it with ornaments, lights and tinsel? Isn’t it fun to place presents under the tree and watch the pile grow as Christmas day approaches? Of course it is, but it’s just as interesting for your pet. Now there are new scents, more fun toys and, boy, packs that can be played with for hours! Unfortunately, many of the new “toys” can be dangerous for your pet.
Christmas tree
If you have an unusually curious pet, it’s best to confine it in a secure area away from the tree if you’re not there to supervise it. A curious cat or dog can easily topple the tree with a few jumps or by pulling on a branch and not only will you have a mess to clean up, but your pet could end up getting cut by broken ornaments or even getting an electric shock from the tree. string of lights Some pets may even chew on the tinsel or decorations, which can lead to gastric problems or even death from toxicity. Even a small tree on a table can be harmful to a cat that likes to jump and play with the tree. Supervising your pet during this holiday season will ensure a happy one.
Cookies, sweets and chocolate
Who doesn’t love to give and receive gifts this season? I remember our neighbor, every year, would give our family a box of Russell Stoffer chocolates and my mom would put the box under the tree. That’s a big mistake for pet owners. Chocolate is especially toxic to dogs and cats when eaten in large quantities. If your pet receives the Stoffers while you are away, he may consume more than he can handle and you will have a very sick pet upon your return, or he may die. If you find yourself in this situation, call your vet immediately. Cookies and candy are not the healthiest items for humans to eat, but imagine an animal that is about 1/10 your size. A cookie for him is like eating a dozen. This is especially important to remember if you have a child who “loves” to feed the family pet what he hasn’t eaten. Dogs love to follow children because they can snatch food out of their hands fairly quickly and enjoy a “stolen” treat. Always keep in mind the good things.
Friends and family
During this season, friends and family come to visit for parties, dinners, and gift-giving. If you know you will be entertaining a group of people, create a “safe” place in the house for your pet. By removing your pet from the party area, you can be sure that they won’t be being fed something they shouldn’t be, nor will you have to worry about a possible “bite” incident. If you have a crate, put it in a room where your pet is comfortable and place it there during the party. He will probably curl up and go to sleep. If you let your pet wonder, politely ask that your guests not feed your pet. There’s nothing wrong with giving some ground rules on how to handle the family pet, and your guests will respect you and feel more comfortable with your pet when they know your expectations. Young children and pets are like magnets and can also be a bad combination. A simple tug on the tail or ear and the pet can scratch or bite. Again, if you know there will be small children and you cannot adequately supervise your pet with the child, move the pet to a safe, quiet area. Always remember that you are the owner and must set the stage for a happy holiday season for your pet.
I recommend the Critter cable which can be purchased through Amazon.com. It’s not only great to wear during the holiday season, but all year long.