1-2-3 Stress-Free Holiday Tips
The upcoming holidays can be a stressful time, both for you and your pet. Here are some simple tips to reduce frustrations so you can both enjoy a happy, healthy holiday season.
Trimming the Tree
- Skip the tinsel. Pets, especially cats, will eat tinsel that can block the digestive system.
- Unplug the lights when not at home. Pets can get burned, shocked or even start a fire by chewing on them.
- Don’t drink the water. The water for a live tree can be a source of toxic fertilizer.
Decking the Halls
- Poinsettias are mildly poisonous and may cause an upset stomach or rash.
- Holly can cause vomiting and diarrhea.
- Mistletoe can cause an upset stomach or even seizures.
Pet-Friendly Treats
- Keep pet-friendly treats on hand. Fatty, rich foods can lead to pancreatitis.
- Many holiday candies and cookies contain chocolate that can make pets very sick.
- Make sure garbage cans are out of reach. Bones from your feasts can be a choking hazard.
Holiday Visitors
- Fido, meet Aunt Fran. Plan ahead how you will introduce family and friends to your pets.
- Stranger danger! Each ring of the doorbell can seem like a home invasion for your pets.
- Making room for company. Moving furniture, pet beds and toys can be very unsettling.
Traveling with Pets
- If your pet is traveling with you, it’s important to keep them comfortable and safe.
- Pet carriers, safety auto harnesses and boosters are great ways to protect pets.
- Coastal’s Bergan® travel solutions reduce distractions and keep pets comfortable.
Pets as Gifts - Why It's Best to Wait
- The hectic holidays may be too much for a puppy or kitten and may even have a lifelong effect on them.
- Avoid the "new toy" syndrome that a pet is to be played with and then ignored when the excitement is over.
- Successful housetraining needs a regular schedule, and most of us cannot provide this needed routine during the busy holidays.