Celebrating Christmas with Your Pet

December 2012, HHVC

It's easy to forget about the little things that can harm your pets during the holidays. Make sure you are careful with the following five Christmas traditions around your pets. Chocolate Chocolate is very harmful for pets and in some cases can cause major illness or even death. Make sure any chocolate is kept up high enough that pets cannot get to it. As well, educate your family on the dangers of chocolate. This way your children will not feed your pets chocolate as a Christmas treat. Christmas Tree Having a real Christmas tree is great. However, if that tree falls on your pet, it could be deadly. Make sure your tree is properly secured so it cannot be pulled down or tipped over by your pets. String and Tinsel String, tinsel, ribbon and other Christmas decorations are wonderful additions to the holidays. However, your pet may view them as beautiful, sparkling toys to eat and play with. Make sure any Christmas decorations you use are properly secured or placed so your pets cannot ingest them. Christmas Lights Nothing is more beautiful than a home with Christmas lights. However, when your pet is indoors or outdoors they could potentially chew the lights and electrocute themselves. Make sure you are watching your pets whenever they are around any Christmas lights. This way you know your pet is not chewing any cords. Plants Many holiday plants can be deadly for your pets. Make sure you research each plant you want to get before purchasing it for your home. Christmas would not be as wonderful if your pet eats a plant and needs an emergency trip to the veterinary clinic. Have a happy holiday season with your family and pets. HHVC