The holidays can be a real ruff time for your pampered pet if you don't take the proper precautions. 'Tis the season to deck the halls. Unfortunately, those decorations can often mean danger ahead for your dog or cat. {relatedarticles}It's important to be alert and keep pet safety at the forefront of your mind when getting prepared for the festivities. When it comes to celebrating the season with fresh plants, proceed with caution. It's only natural to reach for holly, mistletoe and poinsettias around the winter holidays. While these plants aren't necessarily lethal, they can contribute to vomiting and irritation. If your pet swallows these popular plants, contact your veterinarian to play it safe. If your family has a fresh tree, keep an eye on loose pine needles and vacuum frequently to ensure Fido doesn't accidentally eat one. Pine needles can puncture holes in a pet's intestine if swallowed. Speaking of Christmas trees, make sure yours is secured to prevent your pet from pulling it down.
Drinking tree water can also be an issue as it can contain fertilizers or house bacteria which can cause nasty infections. Popular tree decorations can also be hazardous to your pet's health. Tinsel can block the intestines. {relatedarticles}So if you plan on taking a shine to your tree with tinsel, it should be out of reach of your pet. It's also a good idea to place ornaments higher up. Some pets might mistake those cute little ornaments for toys and injure themselves when going to play with them. Keep lit candles away from frisky felines or clumsy canines that could possibly knock them over. Tape down cords and wires so that your pet won't get shocked or chew through wires. Following these helpful hints will ensure you and your furry friends have a happy and safe holiday.