We all love the holidays, and we love our pets…unfortunately the two don’t always mix well. Keeping your pets away from holiday health hazards takes just a little extra care on your part, below are some quick tips to help you protect the ones you love.

Tinsel, ribbon, and other pretty “things” are as attractive to our pets as they are to us! Keep in mind that those pretty “things” are very hazardous to your pet as they are often tempted to take a bite or more. Items like these can get caught throughout the digestive system from the throat to the intestine causing choking, vomiting, and many other ailments. Try to keep any temptations well out of reach, and if you can’t perhaps closing off the room(s) in which these items are placed, to your pets, is your safest option.

Lights, those blinking tempting little shinny things look oh so good to your pet. The new green wires laying all over tempt even the well-seasoned pet to explore, gnaw, chew or even bite; any one of these actions could cause a shock. Be sure to use grounded cords, and thoroughly check all wires for any signs of damage on a regular basis so you can nip (so to speak) any bad behaviors in the butt before your pet gets hurt.

Yum water, water all over the place. We all have seen the dog that drinks from the toilet, the cat that loves to put a paw under the flowing faucet but with all the plants around during the holidays pets have an abundance of other water options. Keep the water under the tree covered in some way to prevent access, keep in mind that bowl of potpourri seems like water to a pet so keep well out of reach, and those Poinsettia’s you are lovingly caring for should also be up and away from prying tongues.

It is a good time to mention Holly, Poinsettias and Mistletoe. Poinsettias are actually not overly toxic to animals though they can cause irritation in the mouth. Mistletoe is very toxic to pets and should never be placed within range. Holly poisoning symptoms are generally mild but it should also be hung with care.

Food stuffs are offered throughout the holidays to humans, but those same humans may be passing a morsel or two along to a cute pet. Tell your guests politely not to feed your pets “people” food can cause stomach issues or worse particularly in the case of chocolate which can even cause death. While you are reminding your guests, remind yourself as tempting as it may be to pass a little something along, it would be far better to bake up a special treat just for your pet that you know is safe and healthy.

If you notice your pet is not behaving normally or experiencing abnormal health issues of any kind immediately call your veterinarian, the more information you can provide when you call the better. Remember pet insurance at times like these can ease your mind and the potential cost.