While the holiday season is a great time for family, friends, and fun, it's important to be aware of the dangers that come along with celebrating. From decorations to food to visitors in and out of your home, there are plenty of opportunities for your pet to get into something they shouldn't. At Happy Paws House Calls, we want you and your pets to enjoy a happy and healthy holiday season. Here are a few hazards to be aware of and how to avoid them.
Decorations
From sparkly tinsel on the Christmas tree to candles on the Hanukkah table, decorations are everywhere during the holidays. Unfortunately, they can also pose a serious danger to your pet. Tinsel, for example, can be very tempting for cats and dogs to play with but can easily become wrapped around their intestines if ingested, leading to serious health problems or even death. Candles should also be kept out of reach as they can easily be knocked over by curious pets, resulting in a fire.
Food
Overeating is a hazard for humans during the holidays, but did you know it can be just as dangerous for your pet? Dogs especially are prone to begging at the table and can easily scarf down more food than they should. This can lead to pancreatitis, an inflammation of the pancreas that can cause vomiting, diarrhea, dehydration, and even death. So be sure to keep an eye on your furry friend at mealtimes and make sure they don't sneak any extra food when you're not looking.
Visitors
The hustle and bustle of holiday guests coming in and out of your home can be stressful for everyone involved—humans and pets included. If your pet isn't used to people coming and going all day long, it's important to give them a quiet place to retreat to when things start getting too overwhelming. This could be a bedroom or laundry room where they can go to relax and escape the commotion. You should also make sure all visitors know not to feed your pet anything without checking with you first as some human foods can be toxic to animals. By taking these precautions, you can help reduce holiday stress for both you and your pet.
Conclusion
The holiday season is a wonderful time of year but it's important to be aware of the potential hazards that come along with it—particularly if you have pets in your home. From decorations to food to visitors, there are plenty of opportunities for your furry friend to get into something they shouldn't. By following these tips, you can help keep your pet safe this holiday season so everyone can enjoy themselves. If your furry friend does need help from a veterinarian in Morristown, contact us right away to schedule an appointment.