With all the food and festivities, keeping pets safe during the holidays can be a challenge. But furry family members will be just fine with some simple precautions.
KC Theisen, director of pet care issues at the Humane Society of the United States, says poinsettias, mistletoe and holly all can be poisonous to pets, or at least cause stomach upset. Bowls of candy or snacks left sitting out also can cause health issues.
“Chocolate is a well-known toxin to dogs and cats,” Theisen says. “Some nuts are also not healthy for pets to eat, especially if they get a large number of them. It’s best to keep all of those dishes, all those snack trays above ‘nose level.’”
Pets can also be curious about decorations, so she recommends securely anchoring the Christmas tree and keeping all breakable ornaments, tinsel, and garland out of reach.
A houseful of people can cause anxiety for the host and some pets. Theisen advises owners to consider their pet’s individual personality when deciding whether or how long to allow them to mingle with guests.
“If they’re a social butterfly and they love to see people, and they can stay calm around a large crowd that’s excellent, they might enjoy the festivities,” she says. “But a lot of pets feel a lot more confident if they have a safe place to retreat to.”
Before putting your pet outside for an extended period of time, Theisen says keep the weather and temperature in mind. Although cats and dogs do have fur coats, she explains leaving them outdoors when it’s freezing can put them at risk for hypothermia or frostbite.
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