The holidays are a time for friends, family, and laughter – but also for potential hazards to your dog. From eating toxic foods to getting into fights with other dogs, here are some tips to keep your furry friend safe this Christmas.
Christmas Trees And Dogs
Keep the water stand covered if you are using a live Christmas tree. A pet’s drink made of water and pine sap is poisonous. Your pet might urinate on a live or artificial tree because of its scent. It might be beneficial to move the tree into a solitary indoor space for a day or two so that it can begin to smell more like “home.” It’s also a good idea to use a dog crate or dog gate to keep your pet out of danger zones when you can’t watch them.
Use a strong fishing line to affix Christmas trees to a wall or ceiling hook. This will lessen the likelihood of the tree going over if your dog inadvertently knocks it over or jumps on it. Keep your dog’s Christmas presents apart from those of your family to keep curious animals from sniffing the tree.
Christmas Ornaments And Dogs
If any tinsel, ribbon, or ornament hooks fall to the ground, pick them up. Any of these things could cause significant internal harm to your pet. If your dog or cat might be tempted to play with the decorations on your tree, you should either just decorate the top two-thirds of your tree or adorn the bottom third of your tree with non-breakable, plastic or wooden ornaments. To prevent boredom, make sure your dog has access to a variety of dog toys.
Holiday Treats for Dogs: Act Extra Cautious
Keep Christmas sweets and snacks away from your dog. Also, keep in mind to put any wrapped presents that may contain food items out of reach under your tree. A lot of human food, especially, can make your dog ill. Alcohol, raisins, onions, and chocolate can all be harmful to dogs! Have healthy dog treats on hand to offer prompt replacements if your pet begins to look into harmful food items.
Dogs and Christmas lights
If you have Christmas lights inside, be sure they aren’t hanging too low, so your dog could get tangled in them. Don’t forget to disconnect the lights when you’re not home to watch over your dog.
Candles and Pets: Put safety first
Make sure your dog is securely contained in its cage, if you have one, before burning any candles. Additionally, dogs should not have access to burning candles.
Holiday Plants and Flowers with Dogs
Pets can get severe stomach upset from popular Christmas flowers like poinsettias and mistletoe berries. To find out what seasonal plants and flowers you need to keep out of your dog’s reach, see your veterinarian or the neighbourhood poison control department.
Some Activities To Cherish Your Dogs
Canine Advent Calendars
An advent calendar’s little doors can be opened with tremendous joy for two minutes. You and your dog can now enjoy this moment together.
Baking For Dogs
Get your own holiday cookie cutters and bake your dog some festive goodies, or put them in a jar as the ideal Christmas present for any dog in your life.
Dog Christmas Stockings
It can be sad to hang Christmas stockings while leaving your four-legged family member outside. Include them in this well-known custom. It could be a good idea to limit the gifts to soft toys and non-edible items until Christmas morning, especially in homes where spaniels might be left home alone.
Dog Christmas Cards
To send holiday greetings to friends and family, including your four-legged family member, some families enjoy designing their own Christmas cards. Sign the card by dabbing your paw into pet-safe ink.
Christmas is a joyous time of year, but it can also be dangerous for our canine friends. Following these safety tips can help keep your furry friend safe and happy during the holiday season. Have a Merry and safe Christmas!