'Tis the Season for...Accidents?

While it may not be first thing that comes to mind around the holidays, there are many things that can be harmful to your pets — some that you might not even think of. From food to plants and trees to presents, there are some precautions you should take to keep your pets safe this season.

Food

Foods that can be toxic to your pets and should steer clear from the countertops include:

• Chocolate
• Coffee
• Uncooked meat – fish, chicken, etc.
• Uncooked yeast dough
• Grapes, raisins, and onions

Plants

While many of these plants are traditional holiday “musts,” most are very harmful and poisonous to pets. They include:

• Holly (leaves and berries) upsets the stomach and can be fatal to cats and dogs
• Mistletoe can upset stomachs and cause heart collapse
• Hibiscus causes diarrhea
• Poinsettias have an irritating sap that can cause blistering in the mouth and stomach upset, being fatal to cats and dogs (and even humans!)

Decorations and Wrapping

Decorations and wrapped presents are a Christmas staple. But not all that glitters is gold! Stay away of some of these harmful decorations and packaging:

• Ribbons, yarn and string can cause intestinal obstruction and bunching of the intestine. These conditions require surgery and can be fatal. Remove from all gifts wrapped with them.
• Adhesives and glues are toxic and often attractive to animals.
• Potpourri contains oils and should not be within reach, as your pets may be tempted to eat it.
• Candles should never be left unattended
• Perfumes and aftershave contain ethanol and can be fatal if your pet ingests them.
• Batteries are toxic and should never be left within reach of your pet.

Christmas Trees

While artificial trees are becoming more popular, many families still opt for the real trees. Keep some of these safety tree tips in mind this year:

• Real tree needles can be toxic and cause mouth and stomach irritation.
• Artificial needles and wire can pose problems as well.
• Chewing on electrical cords (LIGHTS!) can cause burnt mouths electrical shock, or death by electrocution.
• Cats can knock off glass ornaments and get glass shards stuck in their paws.
• Sharp ornament hooks can get stuck in your pet’s esophagus if ingested.

Visitors

While these situations are not really prone to accidents, guests may be allergic, or a large company may be intimidating to your pets. Some pets love visitors, others do not. Consider the following if you are hosting this year’s events:

• Put your pets in a quiet room, away from the commotion with water, food and litter box where they will be more comfortable.
• Ask a neighbor or friend who will be around if your pets could spend the day there.
• Use crates, gates, etc. to separate pets who are more aggressive or scared.
• If you are traveling, check local boarding facilities. They fill up fast. Responsible pet sitters are also a good alternative, especially if your pets don’t do well away from home.

Talk with an Angel’s Wish volunteer about some of the ways you can “pet proof” your home by stopping in during our adoption events. For additional information about keeping your pet safe through the holidays, read more in depth in this article from the ASPCA.

Source: http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/pet-care-tips/holiday-safety-tips.aspx