Holiday Safety Tips for Dogs

With the holidays around the corner, there’s a lot to look forward to. From your favorite foods to costumes or gifts, we hope you’re starting to feel celebratory. For pet owners, the holidays mean another consideration, too: pet safety. As you plan for the holidays, don’t forget to consider these holiday safety tips for dogs—

Avoid Poisonous Plants

While you may be tempted to put up some of the most traditional and beautiful winter holiday plants, such as mistletoe, holly, and poinsettias, note that these plants can be dangerous for pets and cause indigestion, diarrhea, and worse. If you’re tempted to put up plants regardless, make sure that they’re not on ground level and that any leaves that fall won’t be within pets’ reach.

Be Smart About Pet Costumes

Starting with Halloween in late fall, you may be someone who’s inclined to dress up your pet for the festivities. If you are dressing up your pet, be sure to choose a costume that’s pet-safe. This means reducing choking hazards, eliminating any toxic substances, and considering your pet’s comfort as well as their physical safety.

Careful with the Tree

If you put up a Christmas tree each year and this is your first year as a dog owner, note that putting up a tree has some risks. First, there is the risk of tip-over—if your pet is someone who likes to get into things, make sure your tree is secured so it’s unlikely to tip if disturbed. Second, block off access to the tree water. The water bowl can be a breeding ground for bacteria, and could also contain fertilizers that upset your dog’s tummy.

Keep Sweet Gifts Out of Reach

From Halloween through Valentine’s Day, there’s one thing that all of America’s winter holidays have in common: sweets. Dogs can smell food, so be very careful about what you leave out and wrap under the tree. A dog who gets into a box of sweets should be monitored, and calling your vet immediately for advice is recommended.

Reduce Shock Hazards

String lights, wires, and electric batteries are all aglow during the holiday season, but these can be a shock hazard to curious pets. If your dog has a propensity to chew, consider avoiding these decorations.

Keep Your Pet Safe During the Holidays

One thing that may improve your pet’s safety is dog training, which can teach good behavior and help to eliminate those that could be dangerous. At Happy Pup Manor, we offer puppy and dog training classes that get results. Reach out to us today to learn more.