Making Sure the Holidays are Safe for Animals

Holidays are a time of joy and great celebration for many people, complete with special rich foods, elaborate decorations, lots of company and parties. For others, the holidays add pressure and commitments to an already overwhelming daily schedule. Even under the best circumstances, holidays present conditions that can be dangerous and even fatal to your companion animals–inappropriate foods offered to them, decorations within their reach that can be accidentally swallowed, and chaotic households creating a stressful environment. This holiday season, be aware of what your animals are exposed to and be vigilant in keeping them safe from harm.

• Many foods humans enjoy are actually poisonous and can be fatal to animals. Chocolate, macadamia nuts and onions all contain chemicals that rarely cause problems for humans, but for dogs can be deadly. Other potentially dangerous foods for animals include fruit pits, avocado, potato peels, moldy foods, alcohol, yeast dough, tomato leaves and stems, broccoli in large amounts, hops (made to brew beer), caffeine, raisins, grapes and tobacco. For more information visit http://www.hsus.org/pets/pet_care/protect_your_pet_from_common_household_dangers.

• Holiday decorations, including some decorative plants, can be fatal to animals. Amaryllis, daffodils, iris, mistletoe and poinsettia are among dozens of plants listed as toxic to animals. Also make sure animals can’t eat tinsel and other decorations they might be tempted to play with. The chemicals they contain can be fatal and if these foreign objects are swallowed, it can result in expensive surgeries or even death.

For a more complete listing of poisonous plants, visit http://www.hsus.org/pets/pet_care/protect_your_pet_from_common_household_dangers.

• When the holidays get hectic, it can become more stressful for animals too. When you invite visitors into your homes and regular schedules are disrupted, be prepared to provide additional comfort for companion animals. For those that prefer peace and quite, be sure to provide a space where they can feel secure. The pace of the holiday season makes it a less than ideal time to adopt an animal who may not receive the time and attention needed for a smooth transition into a new home.

• Winter weather can be uncomfortable and even deadly for companion animals. In colder weather, animals need more calories (more food) to stay warm when they are outside. Live by the rule that if you don’t want to be outside in the weather, your companion animal probably doesn’t either. When in doubt, always give them the choice of being in or out.

For more comprehensive information on keeping your animals safe throughout the seasons, visit the Humane Society of the United States’ website at: http://www.hsus.org/pets/pet_care.