Holiday joy can potentially turn into a holiday visit to the emergency animal hospital if you do not keep an eye on your pets during the festive season. Ani-Mall Pet Hospital focuses on pet wellness and preventative care, and part of that care includes safety measures you can take to ensure your pet has a safe and happy holiday.

Middletown Veterinarian Wants Your Pets to Be Safe for the Holidays

Holiday foods are a good place to start as many goodies can be toxic. Chocolate is harmful to dogs and cats, as are foods sweetened with xylitol, a substance used in certain candies and chewing gum. Our Middletown veterinarians suggest keeping all sweets out of your pet’s reach, refraining from feeding them any holiday people foods, and making sure the lid is tightly closed on the garbage can, especially during get-togethers or parties.

The tree poses a host of potential hazards, from its tinseled tips to the way it is secured. Tinsel is bright, shiny and can look like a compelling toy for cats, but it can also be dangerous. Tinsel can become lodged in a cat's digestive tract and lead to complications or even require surgery from our veterinarian. Any hanging ornaments are fair game for curious noses and paws, so hang them high and secure them well. The water at a live tree’s base can contain harmful fertilizers, and the tree itself can be at risk of toppling over if not properly secured.

Mistletoe and holly are two more seasonal caveats, as are many kids’ toys. Anything with small parts, wires, or batteries can potentially hurt a pet that decides to chew on them. Quickly pick up wrapping paper, thin ribbons, glittery bows, or other materials that could be harmful if swallowed. A watchful eye coupled with preventative strategies are the best gifts you can give your pet this holiday season.

What other holiday hazards pose a threat to pet safety?