How to Prevent Holiday Pet Emergencies

With all the hustle, bustle, and holiday festivities, it is important to consider the safety and well-being of your furry family members. Holiday decorations, festive foods, and changes in your daily routine can pose potential dangers to your pet. Dr. Hunter Finn and the team at Pet Method Animal Hospital have put together the following safety tips to ensure a safe and happy season for you and your loyal companions.

Watch Out for Wires and Lights

Holiday lights are beautiful but can be a chewing hazard to a curious cat or dog. Chewing on cords can cause serious injuries, including oral burns or electrical shocks. Secure any wires and keep them out of reach, or use pet-proof cord covers. Turn off any decorative lights when you’re not around to supervise your pets to reduce the risk of electrical accidents.

Careful with Candles

Candles set a festive mood with their warm glow and holiday scents. The ambiance can be quickly interrupted by a curious pet knocking over a candle and starting a fire. Your furry companion can get too close and risk facial burns, requiring a trip to your emergency vet. We recommend keeping your candles in secure holders out of your pet’s reach or opting for flameless candles to set the holiday mood.

Holiday Plant Dangers

Nothing adds more warmth to your home than holiday plants. However, holly, mistletoe, lilies, juniper, evergreens, and many other plants and flowers are toxic to animals if ingested, posing a serious health risk. If holiday plants are a must, make sure to keep your pet’s health a priority. Keep any foliage well out of your pet’s reach, or consider opting for artificial alternatives.

Secure the Decorations

Christmas trees, ornaments, and tinsel are inviting for pets to explore. Make sure your tree is securely anchored to prevent it from accidentally toppling. Avoid using breakable ornaments or tinsel, which can lead to intestinal blockages if ingested. Even salt dough ornaments, which may be tempting to munch on, can lead to salt poisoning or dehydration. Be mindful of what decorations you put up, especially the ones within your furry friend’s reach.

Hide the Holiday Treats

Cookies, candies, and other holiday treats can be harmful or even toxic to your pet, especially those containing chocolate, caffeine, dairy products, and raisins. Hard candies can also be a choking hazard or can cause obstructions if swallowed whole. We highly recommend keeping any human holiday treats out of reach.

Beware of Xylitol Toxicity

Sugar-free holiday treats containing xylitol can be especially harmful to your pet. Just a miniscule amount of the artificial sweetener can cause a sudden insulin rush, leading to a dangerous drop in blood sugar levels. Even if your pet survives xylitol exposure, acute liver failure can occur.

Say No to Table Scraps

While indulging in holiday feasts, it is important to be mindful of what to share with your pets. Some human foods and certain spices can be toxic to animals. Even fatty meats and poultry skin can cause gastrointestinal issues. Rather than risking adverse reactions to human foods, keep a selection of healthy cat and dog treats on hand to keep your pet safe this holiday season.

Provide a Safe Space

With the holiday hustle and bustle and guests coming in and out your door, you may want to provide a safe space where your furry companion can relax. Try to stick to regular routines, including feeding and exercise times, to keep things as normal as possible for your furry companion.

Make Sure Your Pet Has a Current ID

Your door may be open more than usual with incoming guests or package deliveries. In the event your furry friend dashes out the door, a microchip and tag with your current contact information will help increase the chances of a happy reunion.

Compassionate Pet Care Near Me in McKinney, TX

Dr. Hunter Finn and the dedicated team at Pet Method Animal Hospital are here to provide comprehensive pet care and preventive tips to keep your beloved pet healthy and happy during the holidays. We can also microchip your pet for added peace of mind. We are always here to support you and your fur-ever friend.

We invite you to call (469) 581-8609 to schedule an appointment or request one online today!