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Here are a few safety reminders for the holidays, courtesy of the Paw Prints e-newsletter from the Roanoke Valley SPCA, [with a few notes from me]: 

1. Avoid Christmas tree disasters.  Christmas trees are a wonderful tradition, but they can lead to problems if you have a curious critter. 


a. Prevent the tree from tipping.  Anchor it to the ceiling or wall.  . [We attached a big old piece of plywood to the base of one of our trees. Makes the tree very sturdy.]

b. Hang non-breakable ornaments near the bottom of the tree
 

c. Tinsel can be deadly when eaten. It can twist in your dog or cat's intestines and cause serious problems.  Just don't put it on your tree. [Tinsel cost a friend of mine big $$ in a vet bill.]
 

d. Don't let your pets drink the tree's water. It often contains chemicals to help the tree last longer; these chemicals can cause severe indigestion. 
 

e. Pine needles can cause health problems. If ingested, they can puncture holes in your pet's intestines. Regularly sweep up fallen pine needles to avoid a trip to the emergency clinic.

 
2. Mistletoe, poinsettias and amaryllis are toxic.  Be aware of these poisonous holiday plants and keep your pets away from them. [I have heard that poinsettias are poisonous and I've heard they are not. Why take a chance? We have some really nice fake ones we got at Michael's, and we reuse them every year.]


3. Keep "blowing" snow in the globe.  Many snow globes contain antifreeze, which is extremely toxic to dogs-so it's best to keep snow globes and all antifreeze out of the reach of a happy, tail-wagging dog.  If there is an antifreeze spill of any kind, send your dog out of the room while you clean up the liquid.  Dilute the spot with water and floor cleaner to make sure your dog does not lick these harmful chemicals later. 


4. Holiday sweets are not pet treats.  Candy, cookies, cakes, peppermints and especially chocolate can trigger life-threatening illnesses in dogs and upset tummies in cats. [Pork is bad for dogs too, so avoid the ham.]


5.  Make no bones about it.  Cooked turkey and chicken bones are not for dogs or cats as they can easily break and cause choking, and bone shards can get stuck in your pet's gums.  Stick with "bones" and other treats specifically designed for dogs and cats to chew.  Ask your local veterinarian for suggestions. [If you have to give a human food treat, white meat is usually a safe bet.]


6. A relaxed dog is a good dog.  Most dogs are excitable when guests arrive.  Exercise your dog prior to the arrival of guests.  After 30 minutes of walking or playing, most dogs will be more relaxed or ready to take a nap.  As a general rule, it's best not to allow the family dog to greet unfamiliar guests.  Commotion and unusual circumstances can cause stress for dogs [not to mention your guests!]  Give your dog a break in a quiet room with a familiar doggie bed or blanket.  Allow your canine companion to join the festivities after the initial commotion of arrival has subsided. 


7. Keep the liquids flowing! When pets are stressed by unfamiliar circumstances, they typically pant more, so keep fresh water readily available for them to drink. 


8. Beware of cold and snowy weather. While it might be convenient to put your pets outside when guests arrive for holiday festivities, falling temperatures and snow can be dangerous to them.  In addition, never let your pet roam freely, as icy roads can make it hard for cars to stop if your dog or cat wanders into the street. 


9. Do not give pets as surprise gifts! A cute and cuddly new pet might seem the perfect gift choice, but many of these holiday presents end up at animal shelters.  A pet takes a real commitment of time, and adoptive owners must be ready to participate in training and managing the responsibility of their new family member.  The RVSPCA has gift certificates available so the animal lover on your list can find his new best friend when the time if right. 


10. Add your pet to your gift list. Help your pets stay occupied and out of the holiday decorations by giving them their own gifts.  The Kong™ or any other solid rubber toy that are nearly indestructible, will distract your dog for long periods of time.  This is the season for all things merry and that includes our furry friends.  Following these simple tips will help make the festivities safe and happy for our canine companions, too. 


Information compiled from SPCA International