Change isn’t your pet’s friend.  Animals can be sensitive to changes in their routines.  Try to keep you pet on their normal feeding, play and exercise schedules.

Pets need a getaway.  Pets can becomes stressed and frightened by the constant noise from ringing doorbells, loud voices, people coming in and out, and excited children, as well as being spooked by holiday costumes.  Some animals become aggressive or try to run away.  Provide a safe, quiet area for your pet away from the chaos with fresh water, toys and a comfy bed.

People food is a NO, NO.  People food and scraps can lead to intestinal upset.  Chocolate, caffeinated products and artificial sweeteners, used in many sugar-free candies, can cause life threatening problems.  Turkey bones, lollipop sticks, wrappers and plastic pieces can cause life threatening intestinal obstructions.  Don’t forget to put a lid on the trash can to keep your pet from looking for tasty tidbits in the garbage.

Alcohol and pets don’t mix.  Ingesting alcoholic beverages can be life threatening, so have plenty of water available for your pets.

Decorate with care.  Keep all decorations out of your pet’s reach.  Pets can chew through light cords causing shocks, burns and cuts.  Candles can be knocked over by wagging tails and curious kitties causing burns to your pets.  Edible tree decorations, such as popcorn strings and candy canes, tinsel, gift wrapping and ribbons can cause intestinal obstructions.  Glass ornaments can break causing injuries to your pet’s mouth, paws and esophagus.  Holly, mistletoe, poinsettias and many forms of lilies can cause vomiting, diarrhea and even death if ingested by your pet.

Christmas tree hazards.  Christmas tree water is not safe drinking water.  It can contain fertilizers, insecticides and flame retardants that were used on the tree.  Live and artificial tree needles can cause injuries to your pet’s mouth, as well as puncture or obstruct their intestinal tract.  Secure your tree to keep it from falling in case your pet tries to pull something off or climb up it.

Microchip…Microchip…Microchip.  Accidents happen.  In an instant your pet can escape through an open door, window or gate.  Identification tags and collars can come off, so microchip your pet.  Even inside cats should be microchipped.  It’s easy, safe, inexpensive and permanent, and always keep your information current with your microchip provider.