Holiday Hazards Guide
Refuge/Calming
Provide a quiet refuge for your pet. The holidays bring in many unusual sights and loud noises that may frighten and stress your pet.Give your pet time and space to settle down or take a nap.Provide a toy or treat to keep them occupied. There are holiday toys and treats to keep up with the spirit.You can give your pet anti-anxiety aids like HomeoPet Anxiety to promote a sense of calmness.
Identification
Make sure pets are wearing current Pet ID Tags. Many pets get spooked and escape. Unfortunately they end up in shelters without identification.
Food
Avoid feeding pets leftover holiday food; discourage friends and family from doing the same.Feeding your pets such foods can cause abdominal pain, vomiting or diarrhea, none of which are welcome during this festive weekend. There are plenty of treats that you can give your pets that are good and safe for them.
Garbage
Dispose of aluminum foil, plastic wrap, and wax paper from holiday foods. If swallowed, these items can obstruct your pets bowels, causing serious health problems.Make sure that your garbage is placed in a secure location where your pet cannot reach it.
Schedule
Maintain your pet's regular schedule for feeding and exercise. Be aware of his daily routine and expectations to reduce unnecessary stress. Pay as much attention to your pet as usual so that he/she will not feel neglected or insecure.
Crowds
Keep your pet away from large crowds, as they can cause unnecessary stress that leads to panicked, inappropriate behavior. A panicked pet may even run away, and it can be very difficult to find a lost pet in a crowded area.
Dangerous Decorations
Menorahs, candles and liquid potpourri pots. Fire and burns are not the only threats to pets and households. Scented items can also be harmful, especially to birds.The ingestion of inappropriate foods, tinsel, ribbons or garlands can cause sickness or obstruction.Fragile items such as glass and other ornaments pose a threat.Electrical cords, heated decorative bulbs, hooks, and a wide variety of other adornment items create temptations. Use pet deterrents and barriers for protection such as the Bitter Apple Spray for dogs or Sticky Paws for cats.
