Pet safety during the holidays

The holiday season is a valuable time for people to remember a few personal safety tips.

Dr. John Shepherd, DVM at Four Loving Paws Veterinary Services, Brazil, believes owners of furry companions should also consider a few pet safety tips, too.

“Holidays are stressful enough for humans, but they are also stressful for our pets,” said Shepherd during a recent pet pictures event with Santa on Wednesday. “It’s not easy on anyone taking a sick pet to the doctor during the holidays.”

Santa stopped by Four Loving Paws to visit with pets and their owners on Wednesday. MJ, the clinic’s pet cat, was one of the first to visit with the jolly old elf.

Ivy Jacobs photo

Shepherd said pet safety at home could be very basic, with the significant concerns centered around food and decorations.

Make sure unattended plates of food, leftovers, cocktails, sweets, and garbage cans (with unsecured lids) are kept away from enterprising pets looking to join in the holiday feast.

“It’s important to try to keep your pet’s eating and exercise habits as close to their normal routine as possible,” said Shepherd, who added to stay away from unhealthy pet treats too. “Table scraps can also be a problem for pets.”

Holiday decorations are another point of concern.

Shepherd, as well as the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), provided some tips to consider, including:

A Christmas tree can be pretty, but it could cause injury to a curious pet if it falls over. (The water pan for a live tree could have fertilizers or be stagnant - a potential breeding ground for bacteria - causing stomach upset, nausea or diarrhea if ingested.)

Tinsel can be eye-catching on a tree, but nibbling on it can be traumatic and a health hazard for a playful cat.

Glass or plastic ornaments are not pet toys. They should be kept out of the reach of a playful pet, who might sustain an injury to their mouth or esophagus if eaten or damage to their paws if broken.

Several types of holiday plants - like poinsettias, mistletoe, Lillies, and holly - can potentially be toxic if eaten.

Candles can create a holiday glow, but also attract the attention of pets. Pets might burn themselves or cause a fire if knocked over, even when placed in the appropriate candle holders. If you leave a room, put lit candles out.

Electrical wires, extension cords, and batteries can cause an electrical shock or a burn if punctured by a pet.

“Food and decorations are probably the two biggest issues we fight the most during the holiday season,” said Shepherd. “We want everyone, including our pets, to be safe. Watch out for those cute little clothes and outfits too. Don’t want them to be too snug or tight, and don’t want the pet to get too hot while wearing them.”

Shepherd explained pets might need a quiet place to relax during the commotion and frenzy of the holiday season, especially on New Year’s Eve.

Many pets are also scared of fireworks, said Shepherd, who encourages pet owners to secure their animals - both indoors and outside - in a safe, escape-proof area as midnight approaches.