The holidays are here and with them come presents, decorations, treats, and visitors. We have a few tips to help keep your furry friends safe during the holiday season.

Holiday Plants:
Many holiday plants are not pet-friendly and can be harmful if ingested, among them poinsettias, mistletoe and holly. Keep them far out of reach of your curious critter.

Decorations:
Make sure your Christmas tree stands sturdy. Your pet could pull on it and become injured or cause damage to your home, and it’s not uncommon for cats to attempt to climb the tree! Also, for live trees, avoid adding preservatives to the water as these can be harmful to your pet if ingested. Using popcorn or cranberry strings on your tree can be tempting to eat for your pet but they could choke on them. Low-hanging ornaments are irresistible to many pets, so be sure to use shatter-proof decorations on the lower branches of your tree. Broken ornaments should be cleaned up immediately as they can cut animals’ paws and skin. Tape exposed electrical cords to walls or floors to prevent pets from chewing or tripping over them. Remember to unplug any lights when no one is home. Decorations such as tinsel, ribbons, bows, and gift-wrap should be kept out of reach so you pet is not tempted to play with or chew on them.

Food:
Don’t feed pets rich holiday foods including candy, nuts, cookies and chocolate. If your pet shows signs of illness, contact your veterinarian immediately.

Company:
Holidays are a time of celebration and family gathering. Keep in mind, a house full of friends and family may cause your pet to feel anxious, even with visitors they already know. Give your pets a safe zone for quiet and privacy. If you have a cat, be sure to place an extra litter box in a quiet, low-traffic location. Keep feeding and exercise on a regular schedule, and make sure pets have plenty of fresh water. With company coming and going, make sure exterior doors are properly closed so pets do not get out. Always make sure your pet is wearing identification.

As you prepare for the festive season, it’s always a good idea to pet-proof your home for the holidays.