With the holiday season upon us, it's a good time for pet owners to take a moment and consider what impact festivities and their trappings might have on our pets
Being Pet Safe means following some simple guidelines
The Humane Society has posted some helpful tips on how to make the season safer for your fur baby.
For starters, table scraps are not safe for pets
Bones, candy, chocolate, artificial sweeteners like Xylitol, Chives, citrus, cherry pits, peach pits, apple seeds, coffee grounds and beans, eggs, raw fish, garlic, grapes and raisins, vegetable leaves and stems from plants such as tomatoes, raw meat, nuts, onions, onion flakes and powder and salt are all no-nos.
There's more to consider
Take care not to leave trash bags within reach of your pet.
It only takes a moment for an animal to tear open a paper or plastic bag and get to those tasty table scraps.
We haven't finished yet
Some dogs and cats like to chew on Christmas trees or other holiday plants. A definite no-no. Don't forget about "needles" that fall off the tree.
Another potential danger
That bowl of water you might have under your live Christmas tree may contain chemicals that extend the life of the tree but could seriously harm your pet.
Many plants are poison for your pet
Ivy, holly, mistletoe, and poinsettias top the list.
Ask yourself, can my pet chew on this?
Decorations, lights, tinsel, and artificial fire logs all are potentially dangerous for your pet.
Is my pet going to climb or knock it over
Pets sometimes climb Christmas trees, accidentally knocking them over.
Even worse, a curious pet may knock over a burning candle and start a fire.
Traveling?
If you are thinking of traveling with your pet there are things to consider.
Air travel can be dangerous for an animal, a pet sitter or boarding kennel may be a better option.
Traveling pets often get frightened and run off. Your pet should always have a collar or tag that has your contact information.
Bottom line, be prepared
Know the number for the closest emergency clinic before an emergency happens.
Happy Holidays!