Tips to Keep Your Dog Safe During the Festive Holiday Season
The holiday season is upon us, bringing festive cheer, family gatherings, and of course, lots of decorations. While we love transforming our homes into holiday wonderlands, it’s important to remember that some seasonal traditions can pose risks to our dogs.
At Muttz with Mannerz™, we’re passionate about helping you raise safe, happy, and well-mannered pups who are cherished members of your family and community. Here are some tips to ensure your dog stays safe while you enjoy all the holiday fun.
O Christmas Tree, O Christmas Tree…
Your holiday tree can be a source of wonder—or trouble—for your dog. Here’s how to dog-proof your festive centrepiece:
- Prevent Tumbles: Secure your tree to a wall or ceiling with hooks and wire to avoid accidents caused by curious pups or wagging tails.
- Clean Up Pine Needles: If you’ve opted for a live tree, regularly sweep up dropped needles. These can be harmful if ingested.
- Cover Tree Water: Protect your pup from drinking tree water, which often contains preservatives or fertilizers.
- Mind the Lights and Cords: Skip lights on lower branches to prevent chewing or tangling. Exposed cords can pose electrical hazards.
- Hang Bells: Attach bells to lower branches as a clever alert system for when your dog is near the tree.
- Skip Breakables: Keep fragile or sentimental ornaments out of reach or store them until your dog is older and less tempted by shiny objects.
- Avoid Tinsel and Strings: Decorations like tinsel, yarn, or strings can cause choking or intestinal blockages if swallowed. Opt for safer alternatives.
- Natural Décor Precautions: If you decorate with popcorn or cranberries, hang these tempting treats high out of reach.
Oh, By Gosh, By Golly—Watch Out for Mistletoe and Holly!
Traditional holiday plants like mistletoe, holly, and even poinsettias can pose risks for dogs:
- Toxic Plants: Mistletoe and holly are highly toxic if ingested, causing gastrointestinal upset and, in severe cases, heart problems.
- Beware of Yew: Often used in landscaping, this evergreen is extremely toxic to dogs. Avoid using yard clippings for garlands unless you’re certain they’re safe.
- Poinsettias: While not as dangerous as often believed, poinsettias can still cause mild irritation or stomach upset if nibbled.
The Christmas Candle (and Oils)
Candles and scents add cozy vibes, but they can also present dangers for pets:
- Open Flames: Never leave lit candles unattended. Your dog can accidentally tip them over, causing burns or even a fire
- Scent Sensitivity: Dogs have an incredible sense of smell, so keep scented candles and potpourri subtle. Overpowering scents can stress your pup.
- Avoid Toxic Oils: Many essential oils used in diffusers or candles can be toxic if inhaled, licked, or absorbed through the skin. Keep them well out of reach or skip them altogether.
- Opt for Alternatives: Plug-in air fresheners can be a safer option, but double-check that they’re pet-friendly
- Wrapping It All Up
By taking these precautions, you can create a holiday environment that’s joyful, safe, and stress-free for everyone—including your dog. At Muttz with Mannerz™, we’re here to help you raise happy, healthy pups, every season of the year.
Wishing you and your furry friends a safe and wonderful holiday season!