Holiday Safety

Sharing the holidays with your companion animal can bring plenty of joy. With all the bustle, activity and changes around your home, your companion may be confused and stressed. For others, these changes bring new opportunities for exploration and mischief!

Here are some holiday tips to keep your companions safe:

• Beware of holiday decorations and plants that could be swallowed by your animal. Ornaments, tinsel, ribbon and hooks can cause serious digestive problems for your animal and may require hospitalization or corrective surgery. Some holiday plants and berries are poisonous and can prove fatal, if ingested. Keep decorations and plants out of reach of prowling cats and inquisitive pups.

• There are shocking consequences to animals chewing on electrical wires and cords. Keep them tucked under furniture or taped down to prevent this problem.

• Provide a quiet spot in the house for your animal where she can retreat from the noise, activities and crowds. Spend time with her during the holidays so she knows she is not forgotten.

• Keep burning candles out of animals’ reach and be sure to snuff them out when you leave the room. Candles should not be burned in rooms with birds as the fumes can damage their respiratory tract.

• Give your companion animal gifts that are properly sized and the correct type for your animal. Also, steer clear of toys with glued on pieces that can be harmful if swallowed.