Finally, Christmas is around the corner!
The holiday season means joy, and family
gatherings with frosty air and winter breeze. But for pet parents, it’s instead
a challenge to pet-proof the home since there are so many shiny ornaments,
twinkling lights, and tempting treats. Your furry friends may get into
situations that ruin the fun. So, here’s an easy-to-follow guide to pet-proof
your home for Christmas, making it a safe and merry holiday for everyone.
Let’s get started!
How
to Pet-Proof Your Home for Christmas
When decorating your home for Christmas, it’s
essential to take precautions to ensure the safety of your pet. Here are some
tips for pet-proofing your home this Christmas:
Watch
Out for Dangerous Plants
Some Christmas plants like poinsettias, mistletoe,
and holly can be harmful to your pet if ingested. If
you want to have plants in your home, ensure they are out of reach of your
pets, or consider using artificial ones instead. You can use pet-safe plants,
like the Boston fern, Calathea Zebrina, or Holiday Cactus, that look festive
but won’t harm your pets.
Be
Careful with Decoration and Lights
Christmas decorations and lights are attractive,
but they also pose risks for pets. Keep wires and cords away from your pets so
they don’t chew on them. Place candles where they won’t knock over, or use
flameless candles for safety. Also, keep small or fragile decorations out of
reach of pets.
Create
a Quiet Space
Creating a quiet space for your pet during
Christmas is important for their comfort as the surroundings can be noisy,
which may cause anxiety. Set up a noiseless area with their favorite bed,
treats and toys. This also helps maintain their eating and sleeping routines.
Keep
Holiday Treats Away
Some Christmas treats can be harmful to pets. Chocolate,
raisins, and turkey bones are not recommended to pets. Keep snacks and
leftovers out of your pet’s reach. If you want to share some holiday food, ensure
it is safe for your pet.
Here are some safe foods that you can offer to your
pet:
- Raw carrots (small pieces)
- Plain Brussels sprouts
- Plain boiled parsnips
- Plain, cooked turkey
- Pumpkin
Keep harmful foods away from your dog explore more: What foods are bad for dogs?
Keep
Your Christmas Tree Safe
If your dog chews on a branch from your tree, it’s
usually not a big problem. However, pine needles can hurt your dog’s mouth and
upset their stomach, especially if they eat a lot. Christmas trees are mostly
safe for pets, but the needles can still cause discomfort in their mouths and may
upset their stomachs if eaten in large amounts.
Use
Fire Safety Measures
If you have a fireplace, ensure it is secured with
a safety screen to prevent your pet from getting too close. Avoid leaving
candles burning when you are not at home. Instead, consider using
battery-operated candles.
Closure
Keeping our pets safe during Christmas is
essential for a joyful and stress-free holiday season. Be
careful with decorations, food, and any possible dangers. By following simple
steps to pet-proof your home, you can ensure your family and furry friends can
enjoy the festivities together.
Happy Christmas to you and your furry family members!
The post Ultimate Guide: Keep Your Pets Safe and Your Christmas Merry! appeared first on CanadaVetCare Blog.