Dear Pet & Service Dog Lovers,
As we enter this festive season, we are reminded of the joy, warmth, and togetherness that holidays like Hanukkah, Christmas, Kwanzaa, and Las Posadas Navideñas bring. While we celebrate with family and friends, it’s essential to remember our beloved pets and keep their safety in mind. This newsletter aims to highlight potential hazards around your home during this busy time and provide tips to ensure a safe and happy holiday for everyone.
Food Hazards: What to Watch Out For
Many holiday traditions involve delicious foods that can be harmful or even toxic to our pets. Here are some common foods to keep out of reach:
Chocolate: A classic treat during the holidays, but chocolate remains one of the most dangerous foods for not just dogs and cats. Even small amounts can cause serious health issues.
Grapes and Raisins: Often found in fruitcakes and other desserts, these can lead to kidney failure in pets, so avoid sharing them!
Onions and Garlic: Common ingredients in festive dishes, both are toxic to pets and can cause gastrointestinal upset and damage to red blood cells.
Alcohol: Keep drinks out of your pet’s reach! Even small sips can cause intoxication and severe health issues.
Cooked Bones: Including turkey and ham bones, these can splinter and cause choking or punctured intestines.
When preparing your holiday meals, be mindful of the ingredients you use and ensure leftovers are stored safely away from curious paws. If there’s any doubt, put it up high or far away from pets reach.
Holiday Decorations: Festive but Hazardous
As you deck the halls with holiday cheer, consider the following items that could pose risks to your furry friends:
Christmas Trees: Secure your tree to prevent it from tipping over if your pet decides to climb or investigate. Be cautious with tree water, which can contain harmful preservatives. Although many companies have made changes to the water to make it more safe, it’s still better to be safe than sorry. Block off tree access if you have to.
Ornaments: Glass ornaments may break and cause cuts; tinsel can cause intestinal blockages if ingested. Consider using unbreakable ornaments and storing tinsel out of reach. If you have breakable decor place it up high where your pets at least can’t knock into them.
Lights and Cords: Keep electrical cords hidden to prevent chewing, which could lead to electrocution. If you can’t hide them easily, utilize rugs or wire covers to prevent chewing.
Candles: While they add a lovely ambiance, candles should be placed out of reach to prevent accidental knocks or burns. Remember, even the fumes can candles be dangerous to pets such as birds!
Seasonal Plants: Beauty with Caution
Many holiday plants are beautiful but can be toxic to pets. Be aware of the following:
Poinsettias: These popular holiday plants can cause mild irritation but are generally not life-threatening. Still, keep them out of reach.
Holly and Mistletoe: Both can be toxic and cause vomiting and diarrhea. If ingested, mistletoe can lead to more severe effects.
Lilies: Beautiful as gifts, especially during the holidays, lilies are highly toxic to cats and can cause severe kidney damage.
Tips for Keeping Pets Safe
1. Create a Safe Space: Designate a quiet area for your pets during gatherings. Provide their favorite toys, treats, and a cozy bed to keep them calm and comfortable. If your pets are not used to the hustle and bustle, it will not hurt them to keep them away especially to the family members who can’t keep their hands to themselves. We should never expect our pets to tolerate violation of their boundaries and it’s your job to protect them. Remember, over 50% of bites are to children and over 90% of bites are to the face and over 90% of bites are preventable.
2. Educate Guests: Remind visitors to keep snacks and personal belongings (like bags and purses) securely placed to prevent pets from sneaking treats.
3. Monitor Decorations: Frequently check decorations and food placements to ensure your pets aren’t getting into anything they shouldn’t.
4. Designate Pet-Free Zones: If possible, create areas in your home where pets are not allowed, especially during large gatherings.
5. Provide Plenty of Enrichment: To reduce stress and boredom during holiday festivities, provide interactive toys or puzzles to keep your pets entertained.
Conclusion
This holiday season, let’s prioritize our pets’ safety while enjoying the celebrations. By being mindful of the items and foods around us, we can create a festive atmosphere that includes every member of the family—furry ones included! Wishing you and your pets a joyful and safe holiday season!
Your Thoughts Matter!
We invite you to share your thoughts on this discussion. What are some other ways you create a safe environment for your Pet or Service Dog during the holidays?
Thank you for being part of our community and engaging in discussions that promote the welfare of both service dogs and those they assist.
Warm regards,
Koda Dog Training & Gear by Pup-Cessories Crafts
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