Christmas is a time that brings family and friends together, but it can pose some safety issues for your pets. Follow these tips to keep your four-legged family members happy and healthy throughout the holidays!

Deck The Halls Safely
Forget the tinsel and make sure any breakable ornaments are out of reach for your pet. Your playful kitten or curious pup can easily mistake a shiny and bright decoration for a toy. Stay away from small ornaments that can be swallowed whole and choose durable, non-breakable ornaments when you can. It’s a good idea to give your pet a treat and keep him or her occupied while trimming the tree. Here are some more tips on pet-proofing your tree.

Ornaments can be mistaken for toys

Toxic Plants
Those festive plants may brighten up the room, but many seasonal ones are off-limits to cats and dogs. If you can’t keep them out of reach you may want to skip the holiday plants altogether, or opt for artificial ones.
Here are some of the holiday plants to be wary of:

• Azalea
• Amaryllis
• Evergreens
• Lily
• Juniper
• Holly
• Mistletoe
• Poinsettia (these are actually the least toxic plant on this list. They are low in toxicity but can cause irritation to the stomach and mouth, resulting in vomiting.)

Even the non-toxic plants can cause gastrointestinal problems if eaten. Here’s a list of all the plants that can make your pet sick.

 Many holiday plants are toxic to dogs and cats

Gifts Aren’t For Snooping
Those presents under the tree are equally as tempting to your furry legged friend. Consider your pet’s safety when adding ribbons and bows to gifts, and avoid placing packages with candies, baking, chocolate or anything tempting under the tree. Buying something for your pet? Make sure you choose quality products from respected pet toy manufacturers.

Holiday bows and gifts can be very enticing

Getting A Charge Out Of The Holiday
Batteries can be found almost anywhere, in toys, watches, electronics, keys even greeting cards. Be mindful of this and keep an eye out when children are playing with their new toys. Always be present for opening of presents to keep curious mouths and paws at bay. Cover or hide any extra electrical cords, and if your dog is a chewer Christmas lights should be out of reach.

Watch lighting and electrical cords with your curious housepets

Watch What You, And They, Eat
The bountiful supply of holiday food can be irresistible, and dangerous. Watch out for turkey bones that are dangerous to your pet, as well as table scraps that can upset a tummy after a stressful day. We all know to keep candy and chocolate away from cats and dogs, but remember that includes chewing gum and of course any alcoholic beverages. Finally keep a tight lid on the trash, especially tempting for our pets this time of year. Here’s a list of more foods not to feed pets.

Although well-intentioned, giving your pet table scraps is not a good idea

Party Animals
The holidays are the ideal time to see family and friends, but many unfamiliar faces and loud talking can stress your pet out. While a cat will most likely hide on their own, it’s a good idea to exercise your dog beforehand, give them a special chew toy and let them escape in a quiet room away from all the commotion. Make sure your houseguests know to keep all medications and table food out of reach. Those who don’t have pets of their own may not realize how dangerous this could be.

Some pets are more social than others, be sure your holiday guests respect your pet’s privacy

Ringing In The New Year
A favourite time for many, but not for your pet. Not only are fireworks very scary, but those strings and confetti can get lodged in your cat’s intestines, and noisy poppers can terrify your pets. Keeping them safe and in a quiet area is the best way to ring in the new year. If that’s not possible here are some more tips for your dog, cat or small animal.

Pets will often look for places to hide when the noises get too loud