Lots of things change around the holidays, our schedules, our home decorations, and all sorts of new and exciting foods are laying all over the counters and on tables. It’s good to take a moment and think about what we can do to prevent any accidents that could jeopardize the safety of our dogs this holiday season because nobody wants to spend the holiday in an animal emergency center.
1. 1000 House Fires Are Started By Pets Every Year
You read that right. 1000 house fires are started every year by pets so be careful with those menorahs and holiday candles. Be sure they are placed in a safe location out of the reach of any pets.
2. Christmas Trees Are Full Of Hazards
Most of our dogs have full run of the house, which means they get into everything, and the Christmas tree can be full of potentially deadly dangers. A fake tree is better for homes with dogs, but if you are going to have a real tree, take extra precautions. Make sure it is well-watered so that the pine needles do not dry out and fall off. If your tree gets dry and the needles fall off, the sharp needles can puncture the internal organs of dogs if they are ingested. They are also poisonous.
Also keep an eye on the water at the base of your live tree. It could contain fertilizers that seep out of the tree, and it can also go stagnant and become a breeding ground for bacteria that could make your pup ill if they drink it.
Make sure that your tree is firmly grounded so that it won’t be easily knocked over by an excited pup with a wagging tail.
Be sure your decorations are secured to the tree so they won’t fall off. Ornaments look a lot like toys to dogs and you don’t want broken glass ingested or stuck in your dogs feet.
3. Mistletoe And Holly Are Toxic
Holly can cause nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.
Mistletoe can cause gastrointestinal upset and cardiovascular problems.
Artificial versions of both of these plants are going to be a much safer option if you have dogs in your home.
4. Keep Toxic Foods Out Of Reach Of Your Dog
Hopefully by now you are aware of the toxicity of chocolate and xylitol for all pets. Make sure to keep your pup away from food tables and unattended plates. Watch those cocktails, too. If your dog gets a hold of a cocktail, they could become weak, ill, and may even go into a coma, possibly resulting in death from respiratory failure. Cocktails are no laughing matter when it comes to our furry family members.
5. Make Sure All Guests Know The Rules
Make sure all guests know that you have a dog, and let them know what the rules are ahead of time to avoid problems later. It’s important that people know to keep doors shut so your dog doesn’t get out. Let them know that feeding your pup table scraps is against the rules. Be sure that children are supervised, and let them know if your dog likes attention or would prefer to be left alone. You may just want to designate a quiet room for your dog when having company to keep everyone safe, secure and happy.
Read more at http://dogtime.com/dog-health/31987-holiday-safety-tips-dog#XHYDWoyMMBCwOUPe.99