More Holiday Safety Tips for Dog Lovers

A Goldendoodle Puppy Wearing a Santa Hat

Last week’s blog detailed some of the hazards typical holiday foods can pose for dogs. In today’s edition, we’ll provide additional helpful information about other dangers the accouterment of holiday celebrations can pose for your canine family members.

Mistletoe is a No-No

Both mistletoe and holly (though they look ever so jolly) can cause digestive system upset and even cardiovascular problems for pets. Also, the lilies found in many holiday arrangements can be toxic and lead to kidney failure. Poinsettias also pose a mild risk of gastrointestinal distress. So keep the bouquets out of the reach of the pooch for their ultimate safety. 

A Branch of Mistletoe

Christmas Trees May Hide Hazards

At first glance, you may think Princess is a greater danger to the tree (wagging tails and fragile ornaments are a bad combination), but the tree itself may also carry risk. If you have a genuine tree sitting in a water base, Fido may think it’s a great place to grab a quick sip. Bad idea. That water may contain bacteria and chemicals harmful to your pet. Moreover, tinsel may look like an enticing target for a quick grab and chew, but it can choke and poison animals.

Keep wires, batteries and glass out of reach of your dog. A wire can deliver a potentially lethal electric shock; a punctured battery can cause burns to a dog’s mouth and throat; and shards of broken glass can damage your pet’s feet and mouth and be fatal if swallowed.

Presents May Cause Problems

You may be unable to smell the fruitcake Aunt Mabel sent in a festive wrapping, but Princess can!  She may eat the ribbon, wrapping, and box to get to it. Be sure to keep packages you think contain food items out of your dog’s reach. Though the packaging may ultimately taste better than the fruitcake, they aren’t food for you or your dog.

Holiday Presents Can Also Pose a Risk to Dogs

Candle Caution

Scented candles smell great to humans and canines, but people are rarely tempted to take a bite. Not so Princess. Keep unlit candles away from your pet (maybe on a high table with the fruitcake). Once lit, the source of danger becomes the candle flame. Wagging tales and curious noses can knock candles onto the floor, where they could burn your pet or your home.

Firestarter logs are also a hazard. Dogs that like to chew may find the pine scent attractive, but these logs contain sawdust and paraffin that can bring on major digestive problems.

Noise Nuisances

Loud music, celebratory poppers, and noisemakers are often part of the holiday celebration. If you know loud noises make your pet anxious, provide a protected space to which your pet can retreat for some quiet time.

Controlling the Crowds

Holidays frequently bring a flood of guests. On the one hand, Princess may not be good around hordes of noisy people. Put her in a place where she can minimize the exposure that brings on her social anxiety. Provide toys to keep her distracted and busy.

On the other hand, your calm, loving dog may begin to act out when experiencing the overstimulation of crowds of unfamiliar people, which could pose discomfort (and even danger) for your visitors. Let them know in advance that you have a dog and that, if necessary, she will be placed out of (her and their) harm’s way. Guests who suffer from pet-related allergies will also want to know that a dog is part of your family. It would help if you also let your guests know whether it is OK for them to bring their own pets to the festivities.

Before Something Goes Wrong

If you take proper precautions, you won’t need emergency vet services.

Nevertheless, knowing the location and contact information for the closest 24/7 emergency pet clinic is prudent. Note their holiday hours and keep the contact information handy. I know from experience not all vets are open on holidays. When your dog chows down on a batch of chocolate Christmas cookies (which my Gracie did), you don’t have time for a from-scratch search for an available vet. So be prepared, but first, take all the precautions necessary to ensure that Princess has a safe and tranquil holiday season.