The holidays are a magical time filled with decorations, festive foods, and celebrations, but they can also pose risks to your furry friends. At Goodna Vet, we've listed holiday pet safety tips to keep your pets safe and the parties rolling!
Holiday Pet Safety Tips:
Festive Foods: What's Safe, What's Not?
Holiday feasts are tempting for pets, but many festive foods can be dangerous. Keep these tips in mind:
Avoid: chocolate, mince pies, onions, garlic, grapes, raisins, and anything containing xylitol (a common sweetener).
Watch Out: Fatty or seasoned foods can upset your pet's stomach or even cause pancreatitis.
Safe Treats: Offer pet-friendly snacks or treats from your vet or pet store instead.
Pet-Proof Your Decorations
Decorations are a holiday staple but can pose risks:
Christmas Trees: Secure your tree to prevent it from tipping over. Avoid tinsel, as it can cause blockages if ingested.
Fairy Lights: Keep cords out of reach to prevent chewing, which could cause electrocution.
Baubles: Choose shatterproof ornaments, as broken glass or plastic can injure curious pets.
Mind the Wrapping Paper and Gifts
Wrapping paper, ribbons, and bows can be choking hazards. Be cautious with gifts containing food or treats — pets have an incredible sense of smell and might unwrap them before you do!
Keep Guests Pet-Friendly
Holiday gatherings can be overwhelming for pets. Here's how to help them cope:
Create a quiet, safe space where they can retreat if they feel stressed.
Let guests know not to feed pets or leave food within their reach.
Watch for open doors to prevent escapes during the hustle and bustle.
Fireworks Safety
New Year's Eve celebrations often come with fireworks, which can frighten pets.
Prepare Ahead: Close windows and curtains to muffle the sound.
Comfort Items: Provide familiar toys or blankets.
Vet Advice: Ask us about calming solutions if your pet experiences severe anxiety.
Plan Ahead for a Stress-Free Holiday
If you are travelling for the holidays:
Make sure your pet's vaccinations, microchip details, and parasite prevention are up to date.
Pack essentials like food, water, medications, and comfort items.
Confirm pet-friendly accommodations in advance if travelling with your furry friend.
We're Here for You This Holiday Season!
At Goodna Veterinary Surgery, we understand that your pets are part of the family. If you have any concerns during the holiday season, don't hesitate to contact us. Our team is here to ensure your pets stay happy and healthy throughout December and beyond.
Book Your Pet's Holiday Check-Up Today
Whether it's a health check or advice on managing holiday stress, Goodna Veterinary Surgery is ready to help. Call us today or book online to keep your furry companions safe this festive season.
Need emergency advice during the holidays? We've got you covered. Contact us for urgent care and support when you need it the most. Let's make this a December to remember — for all the right reasons!
Goodna Vet created a list of toxic holiday foods for pets to help you keep your furry friends safe this festive season. Download the full list now and protect your pet from harmful treats!
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