Keeping your Pets safe during the Holidays

The Holiday season can be full of joy, giving and excitement for us humans. The thought of decorating a tree and putting up holiday nick-knacks can bring back memories of childhood and what Santa is going to bring us in the morning. These enticing decorations and foreign objects can also be hard for your pets to resist. I have not met a cat that could resist the low hanging ornaments at the bottom of a Christmas tree.

Knowing people that own a dog and a cat, they often say the two work as a team during this time of year. The cat routinely knocks the low ornaments off the tree, while the dog comes running in to chase the rolling decoration as well as the cat. While this can be humorous, there are other decorations and even food items that can prove harmful to your four pawed friends. Be extra careful this holiday season when using the following items:

· Tinsel/Ribbons - These are especially tempting for cats. Though inviting, don’t let your cat play with it. Tinsel can get balled up in the intestine and even cut the intestine wall. This can prove a costly trip to the vet, not to mention the danger for the cat.

· String Lights and Electrical Cords – Cats and dogs may be more interested in the lights because they are a new item in the house. Be sure to hide cords or cover them when possible. Animals can chew on the lights or cords, resulting in serious harm.

· Holiday Food such as chocolate and Raisins – The holiday season is full of fun treats for humans. It may be tempting to include the pets in the holiday cheer by giving some human treats, but this can be dangerous. Foods such as chocolate, grapes and raisins can prove deadly for dogs. The reason is not exactly known for grapes, but in chocolate, it is theobromine. Theobromine is a part of the caffeine family, and in large amounts it can be deadly for dogs. If you suspect your dog has ingested either, call your vet immediately.

Keep these things in mind when preparing for the holidays. Watch your pets and anticipate how they will act around new decorations, people and extra commotion. You know your pet best, so use good judgment this season.