If your pets are like mine they are kind, caring, and crazy. One minute they are loving up on you, or happily snuggling in your lap and the next they are quite literally wreaking havoc on the house.
As pet owners, it’s up to us to keep the crazy little cuddle bugs as safe as possible. Here are some tips to keep yours out of harm’s way:
1. Take your pet out of your house.
Consider getting them out of the house if you know there will be guests visiting that will leave the door open or will not remember your pets. We take ours to a nearby farm where she can run and play all day with little worry about the guests accidentally letting her out. Just make sure they have the appropriate vaccinations before boarding them.
2. Have a calm, quiet environment.
If you don’t take them elsewhere, make sure they have access to a calm and quiet environment they can retreat too.
3. Make accommodations for guests pets.
If guests would like to bring pets, make sure you have accommodations and that time is spent acclimating the animals to the environment and to any pets you might have.
4. Make sure guests are aware of pets.
Inform guests of any pets you have prior to their arrival.
5. Avoid people food.
This one applies year-round, but you should avoid giving them chocolate, turkey, sweets, table scraps, or yeast.
6. Secure the Christmas tree.
Tie the Christmas tree so that it won’t tip over. Animals may try to play with ornaments and knock over the tree on themselves.
7. Keep an eye on decorations.
Be sure to keep an eye out for your pet’s access to ornaments and decorations as they might accidently ingest them.
8. Skip water additives.
Be careful of water additives in the Christmas tree because pets may drink it.
9. Hide cords and wires.
Avoid burns by making sure cords are not accessible for them to chew on and candles stay out of reach.
10. Remove plants from pet level.
Common holiday plants such as amaryllis, mistletoe, balsam, pine, cedar and holly are poisonous for animals.
Considering giving a pet as a gift this year?
Keep in mind you are giving someone a 7 to 15 (or more) year full-time commitment. Many people view pets as commodity items but don’t consider the huge responsibility required to care for one. Unless you are sure they are ready, you may want to think of something else!