Holiday Safety Tips

The holidays are upon us! It's  a wonderful time to share with family and guests, but let's not forget about our furry family. With all the yummy smells, beautiful decorations and Christmas presents around the house, pets may be tempted to get in on the action too! Here are a few safety tips and reminders to keep your pet safe this holiday season.

1 The guests are on their way and you're busy cleaning the house. Be sure to keep cleaning agents away from pets. They can  harm pets in many ways from being poisonous if swallowed to burning their eyes and skin.

2 Place holiday plants off the ground. That poinsietta might look beautiful next to the fireplace, but it's safer up high on the mantel or table. Holly, mistletoe, lilies and Christams tree water can be toxic if ingested. 

3 Microchip your pet! Family and friends coming in and out of the house provide an open door for your pet to escape. Be sure to have a microchip placed and your pet's current ID tag on thier collar for identification. Here at South Trail Animal Hopsital, we can implant a microchip and register your pet with Home Again,during an appointment!

4 Candles always look elegant and smell good too, but it's easy for a dog's tail to knock over a burning candle in a moment of excitement. Keep lit candles away from both cats and dogs.

5 The Christmas tree looks beautiful with glass bulbs and tinsel, but to our four legged furry friends it looks fun to play in (or even nibble on). Keep all metal and glass ornaments, ribbons, and tinsel higher up on the tree at a safer distance. They can all be dangerous if swallowed.

6 The holidays can bring delicious smells and food to the house. As cute as your dog may look begging for a drumbstick or dressing don't give in! Fatty foods can cause stomach problems, while bones can cause obstructions or choking.

The doctors and staff at South Trail Animal Hospital would like to wish you and your pets a safe and happy holiday!