Holiday Safety For Dogs - Are There Dangers In Your Home?

Holiday safety - it is a joyous and busy time of the year but there are many potential dangers for our furry friends. To enjoy a happy and safe festive season here are some considerations and reminders to make your home pet safe...

Some Dog Safety Issues to Consider ...

1) Pets like to chew on the Christmas tree if given the chance; keep it secure to avoid accidents. Tree ornaments can be tempting for a doggy. If ingested, items such as tinsel, broken glass, ribbons, bows and wrapping paper can be a definite choking danger.

2) Electrical Light cords should be taped to the floor or wall to ensure no tripping or chewing and spray with a chew deterrent.

3) It is important that your dogs are not left unsupervised while fireplaces and lit candles are going. The embers, sparks and wax are a hazard and could potentially injure your faithful friend.

Holiday Safety - Plants and Products That Pose Dangers for Your Dog...

1) Snow Globes - many contain harmful antifreeze.

2) Toxic artificial snow.

3) If your dog decides that the poinsettia looks tasty, be aware that it could cause stomach problems and eye and mouth irritation, this is also true with holly.

4) A small amount of Yew is toxic and fatal.

5) Ingesting Mistletoe could bring about vomiting, swelling of the throat and mouth and a drop in blood pressure.

6) Antifreeze is very toxic. Clean up any spills that occur. It tastes sweet but a small amount could be fatal.

Safe Toys for Your Dog

Chew toy are popular for our best buddies but be aware that those made with de-isononyl phthalate (DINP) which are used to make plastic soft and flexible is a toxin. Dogs love to chew on the squishy, soft plastic toys that make noise and bounce but they pose the greatest danger considering that some pets will chew on these to destruction. Test results have shown (DINP) to cause liver and kidney damage if swallowed. A better alternative is to buy the ones that are made from natural rubber or latex. They are safer for your dog and better for the environment.

Food That May not be Safe for Your Pet...

Avoid too many table scraps and give your dog healthy treats over the holidays, everything in moderation. Keep macadamia nuts and chocolate out of reach of your dog, both are toxic to canines.

Holiday safety is important but do have fun, relax and enjoy some quality time with your best buddy while enjoying the festivities, which will definitely get that bark of approval.