Deck the Halls with Bones and Catnip this Holiday Season

Pet expert suggests Six Tips for keeping Fido and Fluffy safe.

Courtesy: familywebshots.com

(CARSON CITY, Nevada) - There are approximately 74.8 million dogs and 90 million cats in US households according to the Humane Society of the USA. Americans spent approximately $3 billion on Christmas for their pets last year according to USA Today.

Since Fido and Fluffy are part of the family, pet expert and author Mary J. Getten suggests that it is important to make your home safe for your pets to ensure the holly jolly spirit is had by all.

She recommends that you pet proof your entire house, or keep the most tempting items, like a tree with breakable ornaments and gifts, in one room that is off limits to the animals.

Also, be sure to monitor the foods your pets are consuming. During the holiday season, it is important that everyone be informed about the dangers that festive foods, gifts, and other items may pose to your pets.

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Here are a few more reminders to keep your pets happy and safe.

1. Holiday Food - Fatty foods can cause pancreatitis and gastrointestinal issues. Chocolate, coffee, garlic, grapes, raisins, and onions are toxic to dogs and cats. Rising dough on a counter top is irresistible to some pets, and can cause serious problems. Don't forget that wrapped food gifts under or on the tree can be easily consumed by dogs, cats, birds and small pets. Not only are food items a problem, but wrappers are impossible to digest.

2. Holiday Plants - Many lilies are deadly to cats. Mistletoe, poinsettias and holly cause gastrointestinal upset for all critters. Christmas tree water can be filled with chemicals or bacteria and pine sap is dangerous if ingested. Secure your tree to the wall so your pets can't knock it over.

3. Decorations - Tinsel, ribbon, bells, ornaments and hooks are attractive play things for many small animals. If swallowed they may cause internal blockages requiring surgery. Broken glass ornaments can cut paws and mouths. If your pet likes to play with things on the tree, decorate the lower third with pet friendly toys or plastic ornaments.

4. Candles - Put burning candles in places that are inaccessible to your pets. Chestnuts roasting on the fire is fine but no one wants a pet to accidentally tip a candle over, hurt themselves and start a fire in the house.

5. Batteries - Don't leave batteries for those Christmas toys lying around. They are fun to play with, but contain corrosives. If ingested, they can cause mouth ulcerations and intestinal issues.

6. Share Holiday Cheer with Pets - Include your pets in some holiday activities. Give them special holiday treats and toys. Introduce visitors to your pets slowly. Do not overwhelm the animals with too many new faces and smells. If you will be away over the holidays and your pets tend to get nervous, anxious or stressed, give them a nontoxic calming remedy such as Bach Flower Rescue Remedy in their water dish.

Remember, good pet parenting is always in season.

You can email CeliaSue Hecht at celiasue.hecht@gmail.com

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