The holidays are a magical time filled with festive décor, delicious food, and gatherings with loved ones. However, the season can also bring hidden dangers for pets, especially in places like Las Vegas, where the environment and holiday habits can increase these risks. Understanding and preventing these common holiday hazards for pets is essential to keeping our furry family members safe and happy.
1. Christmas Trees and Holiday Decorations
The Christmas tree is often the holiday centerpiece, but it’s a common holiday hazard for pets. Whether real or artificial, trees can topple over if pets climb or pull on them. To prevent accidents, secure the tree firmly with a stable base and consider anchoring it to the wall if it seems unsteady.
Ornaments, especially fragile glass ones, can be dangerous if knocked off and broken. Additionally, tinsel, garlands, and ribbon can be tempting for cats and dogs alike but pose choking hazards or intestinal blockages if ingested. Swap out dangerous decorations for pet-safe ones, such as fabric or wooden ornaments. Avoid using tinsel or ribbon altogether, opting for safer alternatives like cloth garlands or pet-safe decorations.
2. Festive Plants
Festive plants can bring cheer to a home, but many popular holiday plants are toxic to pets. Poinsettias, for example, can cause vomiting, drooling, and mouth irritation if ingested. Mistletoe and holly are also harmful to pets and may result in gastrointestinal upset or, in severe cases, cardiovascular problems.
A pet-friendly alternative is artificial plants, which can look just as festive without the risk. If you want real greenery, consider pet-safe plants like Christmas cactus, which adds a beautiful touch of red or pink and won’t harm pets. Keeping plants out of reach is another option, but curious pets can be surprisingly agile, so always double-check placement.
3. Electrical Cords and Lights
Twinkling lights and holiday displays make the season bright, but they can also attract pets, especially puppies and kittens, who may see cords as chew toys. Biting into an electrical cord can cause burns, shocks, and, in severe cases, fatal injuries.
To protect pets, hide or secure electrical cords with cord covers or use pet deterrent sprays to keep them away. When possible, unplug lights when you’re not around to supervise. Additionally, opt for battery-operated candles instead of open flames, as curious pets can easily knock over real candles, creating a fire hazard.
4. Holiday Foods and Drinks
One of the biggest common holiday hazards for pets is holiday food. Chocolate, raisins, grapes, onions, garlic, and foods high in fat are dangerous for pets. Chocolate and sweets with xylitol are particularly toxic to pets, potentially leading to liver failure, seizures, or worse.
Educate guests about keeping food out of reach, and make sure that trash cans are secure, as pets might sniff out discarded food scraps. As a safer alternative, have some pet-friendly treats on hand so your furry friend can join the holiday feast in a safe way.
5. Alcohol and Other Holiday Drinks
With holiday parties come festive beverages, but alcohol can be highly toxic to pets. Even small amounts of alcohol can cause vomiting, difficulty breathing, and dangerously low blood sugar in animals. If you’re hosting, ensure all drinks are kept out of reach, and clean up spills promptly.
For pets that love to feel included, consider offering pet-safe alternatives like dog “beer” or catnip tea, which will allow them to join the festivities without any risk.
6. Holiday Wrapping and Packaging Materials
Gifts and packaging materials are part of the holiday fun, but they can also pose risks. Ribbons, bows, and plastic wrap can be dangerous if ingested, potentially leading to choking or intestinal blockages. Scissors and other sharp tools used in wrapping can also harm pets if left within reach.
When unwrapping gifts, be mindful of where you place packaging materials and discard any hazardous items immediately. Consider offering your pet a few safe toys or treats to keep them occupied and out of mischief while you open gifts.
7. Noise and Excitement from Holiday Gatherings
Holiday gatherings are often filled with excitement, noise, and unfamiliar faces, which can be stressful for pets. Loud noises, especially fireworks during New Year’s celebrations, can trigger anxiety in pets, leading them to hide or even escape.
To help pets feel safe, create a quiet, comfortable space where they can retreat if the festivities get overwhelming. Providing their favorite toys, blankets, or even calming pheromone sprays can help ease anxiety. If your pet has severe noise sensitivity, consider talking to your veterinarian about options for managing their stress.
8. New Holiday Items or Guests with Allergens
The influx of new holiday items, scents, and guests can bring unexpected allergens into your home, which can be problematic for pets with sensitive systems. Scented candles, air fresheners, and holiday potpourri can trigger allergies or irritate pets’ respiratory systems.
Choose unscented candles or pet-safe essential oils, and avoid aerosol sprays that may cause respiratory issues. If possible, inform guests of any known allergens or pet sensitivities in advance.
Celebrating the holidays with pets is all about balancing festive joy with safety. By being mindful of these common holiday hazards for pets, you can ensure that your furry family members remain happy, healthy, and safe throughout the season. Taking simple precautions like securing decorations, offering pet-safe treats, and creating quiet spaces can go a long way in preventing accidents and making the holidays enjoyable for everyone in your Las Vegas home.
Need help with dog walks and pet sitting this holiday season? Contact us today to schedule visits so we can keep your pup happy and active all season long!