Keeping pets safe during holidays requires planning

Celebrants all over may look forward to the holidays for the hustle and bustle they bring, but the same sentiments may not be expressed by pets — if they could talk, that is.

Pets that aren't used to a lot of foot traffic in a home or loud events could become anxious when holiday guests arrive and the fun ensues.

Further stress could be added by lack of attention on the part of pet owners and the changes of the home environment through the addition of decorations and a Christmas tree. The holidays can pose many hazards for pets, so make sure you are aware of these dangers, to keep pets safe.

Keep these pointers in mind:

Don't use poisonous plants in your holiday decor. Holly, ivy, mistletoe and poinsettias can be deadly if consumed by most animals. Go with faux plants instead if you desire the look.

Keep your pets on a steady diet and resist the urge to feed them leftovers from holiday dinner. Abrupt changes in your dog or cat's diet can cause stomach distress, vomiting and diarrhea.

Set aside a quiet space your pets can retreat to when there's just too much commotion in another area of the house. However, putting a dog in the backyard if it is extremely cold is a no-no. A dark bedroom away from the activity is best.

Cats love to climb and may take to your Christmas tree. Safeguard against the tree tipping over by securing it with a piece of fishing line anchored into the ceiling or a wall.

Avoid placing lit candles or breakables on areas where cats like to pounce.

Pets, particularly cats, can be tempted to eat tinsel, which can block the intestines. Hang tinsel high and securely to keep it out of reach of pets.

Put away toys after children open their gifts. Small plastic pieces and rubber balls are common causes of choking and intestinal blockage in dogs. Ingested plastic or cloth toys must often be removed surgically.

The extra electrical cords and plugs of holiday lights and other fixtures can look like chew toys to pets. Tape down or cover cords to help avoid shocks, burns or other serious injuries.

Involve pets in the festivities by buying a special treat that they can enjoy for good behavior during the holidays. A new chew or chase toy is a nice idea.

If you will be traveling during the holidays, make sure your pets are adequately secured in the car and not allowed to roam freely. Use a travel crate or a special seat belt to keep the animals in place.

If you think your pet has eaten something toxic, call your veterinarian and/or the Animal Poison Control Center's 24-hour emergency hotline at 1-888-4-ANI-HELP.

With some planning and care, you can ensure your pets will be comfortable and content during the holiday season.

Source: www.paw-rescue.org

Ellen Sackett is a special contributor to The Keller Citizen.