Did your holiday decorations survive your military move? Often, opening the bins of décor after a PCS is a gamble. Apparently, swaddling a ceramic Santa in excessive layers of bubble wrap is not enough to prevent shipping damage. Meanwhile, a “unique” ornament made with ample amounts of preschool paste and dry macaroni survives the journey without a scratch!
It’s fun and nostalgic to reveal holiday decorations year after year, but while unpacking holiday goodies and decking the halls this season, it’s a good idea to keep your pets in eyesight—they’re forever entertained by the mischief of sparkle and shine.
From curious cats to prying pups, we're sharing a handy list of tips for keeping your pets healthy and safe during the holiday season.
1) Tend to the Tannenbaum
O Christmas Tree, O Christmas Tree, how lovely are thy branches...
Displaying a Christmas tree in the house rings in the holiday spirit, but how can you keep it safe from busy paws and tails? Take a look at these ideas.
Image from Pixabay
When setting up your Christmas tree, ensure the base fits snugly in the stand.
Try stringing a durable fishing line from the ceiling to secure the tree from the top. That way, if Mrs. Whiskers tries out her kitty climbing skills, the whole tree won’t come toppling down.
Add a cover over the reservoir to prevent your critters from drinking the tree water.
Although you’ll add fresh water regularly, the basin may harbor dangerous preservatives that animals should not ingest.
The sparkling garland and twinkling lights can entice your companions to investigate your new focal point.
As you string your spruce, hang sachets of orange and lemon peels or add citronella-scented oil as a natural deterrent.
Consider your pooch’s wagging tail.
There's less chance of Rover’s happy tail knocking down the breakable décor if you place delicate ornaments on higher branches.
Don’t let time get away from you. Prep for the Holidays Now: A Month-by-Month Guide
2) Avoid Poisonous Plants
Boughs of green and berries of red are the signature colors of Christmas. However, specific greenery is poisonous for your dear creatures. When decorating with greenhouse goodies this season, steer clear of plants that pose a danger, such as:
- Holly
- Mistletoe
- English Ivy
- Amaryllis
- Poinsettia
- Christmas cactus
Image from Canva
Plants like these are popular during the holiday season but can cause serious issues if your pet ingests them. Instead, choose pet-friendly green and red vegetation like rosemary sprigs and pineapple sage blooms.
3) Think Safety First
From hanging up Mrs. Whiskers' feline-themed Christmas stocking to finding Rover a canine Santa hat, sharing the season with a furry friend adds another level of fun to your holidays. However, it's also a time to be watchful since home life will be out of the ordinary in many ways.
Remember: cats and dogs will put anything they find in their mouths!
So, keep track of any small parts when children open their new toys, and be careful when installing toy batteries. Be vigilant to prevent your animals from choking on or eating harmful items.
Along with the jingle of bells, ponder these points:
The flicker of flame from a candle can bring a pleasing scent but could also pose a risk to a prowling cat.
Strands of lights can add festive color, but an extension cord along the floor can tempt a dog that likes to chew.
Image from Canva
4) Be a Careful Host
Gathering with family and friends is often a highlight of the holiday season. While enjoying your gracious hospitality, guests may casually leave their cups and plates around your living space. Amidst your festivities, an inquisitive kitty or nosy mutt might eat or drink something they shouldn’t, such as:
- Alcohol
- Avocado
- Chocolate
- Grapes and raisins
Image from Pixabay
Serving indulgent foods is a fun splurge during the holiday season. However, ensure the snooping creatures do not consume your food and drink.
When inviting visitors to stay in your guest accommodations, remind them of an important detail: your tabby or hound might investigate the toiletries your company is unpacking. Encourage your vacationers to close bedroom doors and safely tuck away their personal goods and medicines to prevent an accidental discovery by your prying pals.
5) Create a Safe Space
Image from Canva
The hustle and bustle of the holidays often includes:
Excitement: The busy pace of the holiday season and the thrills of opening surprise gifts can add a pattern of behavior that differs from what your cat or dog knows. Take notice if your kitty or canine companion seems on edge.
Anxiety: Preparations for visitors or squabbles with family members can also upset your furry friends' daily routine, so be reassuring and kind as they adapt to the holiday happenings.
Noise: Happy guests, festive music, bursts of fireworks. These joyous moments of celebration can actually stir a sense of fear in animals. Take measures to ensure your pets are kept safe and sound.
These elements and more could trigger the “fight or flight” instinct in pets, causing them to act out negatively or try to run away. For the well-being of your four-legged friends, create a quiet spot away from the surge of holiday merriment. In this safe space, your pets can retreat and find rest.
With these suggestions in mind, you can make the holiday season an enjoyable experience for the animals you adore. And if you’ll be traveling over the holidays without your pets, take a look at our list of Alternatives to Pet Boarding During the Holidays for ideas on their continuous care and comfort.
Download this quick reminder of holiday pet hazards.
