Holiday Pet Safety for Pets of Limerick

The holidays are a time to be enjoyed with your loved ones, and of course, that means your pets, too! However, they can’t always take part in all the same things we do! Decorations and food can be a danger to them if they aren’t under our watchful eyes. Take extra care of your pet this season and keep the holidays happy with our holiday pet safety tips!

Dog Jack Russell Terrier at the Christmas tree, fireplace on a holiday

Safety in Every Decoration

Much of our holiday cheer spawns from the festive decorations that adorn our homes. Pets, for their part, are curious creatures and will undoubtedly investigate every new piece of décor that you put up. It’s important to realize, however, that many decorations are actually hazardous to our pets. Keep the following well out of reach or make sure your pet is always supervised around them.

  • The Christmas tree can topple over with ease, while the pine needles irritate your pet’s skin.
  • Electric lights are a danger if chewed on, as they could cause severe electrical burns or electrocution.
  • Tinsel and ornaments look like fun new toys to pets, but they can easily break apart and be swallowed, causing serious intestinal obstruction.
  • Festive plants such as poinsettias, amaryllis, lilies, mistletoe, and holly are all poisonous if ingested.
  • Candles bring a lovely ambiance to your home, but swishing tails and curious noses easily knock them over, which could result in a fire or even a burn to your pet.
Cat near the sack with Christmas gifts

Keep Food Sharing to a Minimum

It’s true that there are some foods from your table your pet can enjoy, too. Yet, they often need to be plain (free from spices and fats). Common foods you can share (in small quantities) include plain cooked vegetables, lean meat like turkey or beef, pure pumpkin puree, and potatoes. However, there are many foods you should avoid sharing, and it’s important you make sure your guests understand this, too! Be sure to keep these foods away from your pets:

  • Turkey skin and bones
  • Meat fat or gristle
  • Rich, buttery foods
  • Baked goods and candy
  • Nuts
  • Chocolate
  • Onions, garlic, leeks, shallots, and scallions
  • Grapes and raisins

For any other advice about holiday pet safety and what else you can do to keep the holidays happy for your pet, please contact us! We look forward to answering your questions.