Holiday Safety
General Tips
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Stick as closely as possible to your normal daily routine. Try not to vary your pet’s feeding, walking or playtime schedule, even when traveling for the holidays.
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When traveling with a dog or cat, keep a flat buckle collar and current ID tag on them at all times. Add a temporary tag with your vacation destination and cell phone number in case your pet is lost while traveling. Take a current photo and their rabies certificate along with you, just in case.
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If traveling with a small animal, bird or reptile, keep your pet confined to their habitat while in transit and make sure that if you let it out for exercise/playtime at your final destination, the room is safe for your pet—and that your pet is supervised at all times. You may also want to place a sticker with your name and contact information on their habitat.
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Always remember to look up an emergency veterinarian in the area you are traveling to so that you will have the number available should an emergency arise.
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If you host a party, remember that some guests may be uncomfortable around different pets. Your pet may, in turn, be uncomfortable or frightened around a large group of unfamiliar people. It may be best for your pet to relax in their habitat or crate, in a room not used by guests, while being offered a yummy treat or toy. You can also play soft music in the room, if that relaxes your pet.
Holiday Time
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Holly, mistletoe and poinsettia plants are poisonous to pets. Make sure they are kept in places your pet cannot reach.
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Do not put lights or ornaments on the lower branches of your tree. They may get very hot and burn your dog or cat, or your dog or cat may chew or swat at them.
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Watch out for electrical cords. Pets often try to chew them and can get badly shocked or electrocuted. Place them out of reach.
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Avoid glass ornaments, which break easily and may cut your pet’s feet or mouth.
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Do not use edible ornaments, cranberries or popcorn strings. Your dog or cat may knock the tree over in an attempt to reach them.
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Both live and artificial tree needles are sharp and indigestible. Keep your tree blocked off with a playpen or other fence, or in a room that is not accessible to your pet
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Tinsel can be dangerous for pets. It may obstruct circulation and, if swallowed, block the intestines.
• Keep burning candles on high tables or mantels, out of the way of your pet’s wagging tail. -
Your pet may want to investigate wrapped packages; keep them out of reach.
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Do not feed pets food from the table as it can upset their digestive system. Each year, many pets and pet parents visit the emergency veterinary hospitals during the holidays because their pet ate something they shouldn’t have. There are a variety of pet-appropriate foods and treats available if you want your pet to join the celebration.
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Few pets appreciate the spectacle of New Year’s Eve celebrations, which may include fireworks. The loud noises may be upsetting or even uncomfortable to your pet’s sensitive ears. If you’re going out to see fireworks, consider leaving your pet at home.
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If fireworks or other noises can be heard from your house, and they appear to bother your pet, take them to a quiet room with soft music playing in the background. Provide yummy treats and toys to keep them busy.
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When taking your dog outside to use the bathroom, make sure your fence is secure. Do not leave your dog outside. It may be a good idea to walk your dog on a leash in the backyard, as many dogs have jumped over the fence because they were frightened by the fireworks or other commotion.
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If your pet has a history of negative reactions to loud noises, talk to your veterinarian ahead of time for techniques to make the night easier.