Holiday Hazards: Pet-Proofing Your Festivities
It’s easy to get caught up in the holiday spirit, the festivities, the food, the gifts, and the decorations. Ensure a safe holiday season by identifying common hazards for pets, such as certain decorations and festive foods.
“Many of the decorations, foods, and festivities we associate with the holidays could cause big problems for your pet, putting them at risk for everything from indigestion to severe injury,” according to the article, “22 Holiday Items That Can Harm Your Pet” at petMD.com.
The article says to keep pets away from:
• Fatty foods, which can cause pancreatitis.
• Chocolate is toxic to dogs and cats.
• Grapes and raisins are dangerous.
• Sugar-free pastries and candies containing xylitol are toxic to dogs.
• Garlic and onions are dangerous for dogs and cats.
Additionally, keep your pet away from the dangers of alcoholic beverages, poinsettias, holly, mistletoe, burning candles, and electrical cords.
Pets can feel scared and overwhelmed during the holidays. Keep your eyes on your pets so they don’t get into foods they shouldn’t eat or into anything else posing a threat.
According to the article, “6 Holiday Pet-Safety Tips for Pet Parents” at Chewy.com, “With people coming and going from your home and all the holiday hustle and bustle, your pets can slip out the door. Put up signs to keep the door securely closed, put up dog gates, and remind your guests if needed.”
Ensure Your Pet’s Year-End Health Check and Get Ready for the New Year
Your pet’s health is important every day throughout the year. As 2025 winds down it’s important to reflect on your pet’s health over the past year and get ready for a healthy start to the new year including wellness checkups and routine care.
Start by getting all your pet’s information and reviewing the past year. “The end of the year is a great time to take stock of your pet’s overall health and happiness,” according to the article, “End of Year Pet Checklist: Preparing Your Pet for a Happy, Healthy 2025” at Josey Ranch Pet Hospital. Questions to ask include:
• Did their routine change?
• Does your pet get enough exercise, mentally and physically?
Note any changes you’ve noticed and bring them up with your veterinarian. Schedule your pet’s next wellness exam in the new year.
According to the Josey Ranch Pet Hospital article, be sure to get on track or continue with preventative care, including flea, tick, and heartworm prevention. Have your pet’s microchip information updated and check your pet’s emergency kit. “Take a few minutes to review the contents of your pet’s emergency kit and restock anything that’s outdated or missing,” the article said.
It’s also a good idea to think about your pet’s health into the new year. According to the article, “New Year’s Resolutions for a Healthy Pet” at American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA), it’s important to keep your pet active. “Regular exercise will help keep your pet’s weight in check, build muscle, and prevent boredom.” Additionally, make sure not to overlook your pet’s dental health, which is important for your pet’s overall health, the article said. Also be sure your pet has a balanced and nutritious diet.
Keeping your pet healthy and happy in the new year will prove to be positive for you both.
Article 2: “Holiday Hazards: Pet-Proofing Your Festivities”
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Holiday Hazards: Pet-Proofing Your Festivities
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Keep Your Pets Safe and Happy During the Holidays
It’s easy to get caught up in the holiday spirit, the festivities, the food, the gifts, and the decorations. Ensure a safe holiday season by identifying common hazards for pets, such as certain decorations and festive foods.
“Many of the decorations, foods, and festivities we associate with the holidays could cause big problems for your pet, putting them at risk for everything from indigestion to severe injury,” according to the article, “22 Holiday Items That Can Harm Your Pet” at petMD.com.
The article says to keep pets away from:
• Fatty foods, which can cause pancreatitis.
• Chocolate is toxic to dogs and cats.
• Grapes and raisins are dangerous.
• Sugar-free pastries and candies containing xylitol are toxic to dogs.
• Garlic and onions are dangerous for dogs and cats.
Additionally, keep your pet away from the dangers of alcoholic beverages, poinsettias, holly, mistletoe, burning candles, and electrical cords.
Pets can feel scared and overwhelmed during the holidays. Keep your eyes on your pets so they don’t get into foods they shouldn’t eat or into anything else posing a threat.
According to the article, “6 Holiday Pet-Safety Tips for Pet Parents” at Chewy.com, “With people coming and going from your home and all the holiday hustle and bustle, your pets can slip out the door. Put up signs to keep the door securely closed, put up dog gates, and remind your guests if needed.”
If your pet is stressed due to many houseguests coming in and out along with loud noise and music, try to keep them calm by creating a safe environment away from guests. Keep them distracted with enrichment toys and even music, the Chewy.com article said.
Ensuring your pet is safe and out of danger during the holidays is of the utmost importance.
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