Dog Christmas Safety Tips from All Day Dog Adventures
Pet Safety Christmas Tips from All Day Dog Adventures
Christmas is a busy time of you, your family and of course our furry family members.
It’s time for some down time, spending time with friends and family. It is also important to consider and make sure your dog is safe this Christmas. For some people it’s a time to have extra visitors for the holidays!
Here are our top Dog Christmas Safety Tips:
Christmas Tree
Shiny lights, decorations, pine needles, and water! Your dog might be tempted to jump into the Christmas tree or sneak some decorations off the tree. Make sure you don’t put any edible tree decorations up- the temptation might be too much to resist!
Chewing or even whole decorations can lead to stomach blockages and result in an emergency vet visit- something we want to avoid!
Did you know that the water for the tree can turn toxic? Make sure you routinely replace the water in the stand! Your dog might be tempted to have a sip.
- Anchor your tree so it can’t be pushed over
- No edible tree decorations that your dog can reach
- Use a barrier if necessary
- Change water in the stand routinely
House guests
The Christmas season can be overwhelming for many dogs. It’s the season for extra visitors to the house which can be unsettling for many of our dogs.
Top tips to keep your dog comfortable:
- provide a quiet safe space for your dog- comfortable dog bed in a quiet area or a crate
- let your visitors know that you have a dog that might be a little unsettled and ask them to give your dog some space and a moment to get to know them
- prepare a tasty treat to keep your dog occupied
- keep to your normal routine if you can- dogs still want their daily walk or mental stimulation session!
Lights/Cords
Make sure your dog does not have access to the cords/Christmas light to avoid your dog getting tangled up or even chewing them.
Ornaments
For dogs the bright and shiny Christmas decorations can easily be mistaking for some fun dog toys. Dogs might want to play with them. Many Christmas baubles look like balls- which we know a lot of dogs love to play with. Eaten or chewing on the decorations can lead to digestive issues such as blockages/upset stomach or even cuts. The best option is to make sure your dog does not have unsupervised access to any Christmas decorations.
Plants
Many Christmas plants such as holly, mistletoe and poinsettias can be poisonous to dogs. Symptoms may vary but look out for an upset stomach, slow heartbeat, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or any other signs of poisoning.
Candy/Chocolates/Christmas food
Make sure your dog does not have access to the Christmas dinner. Avoid your dog eaten something it shouldn’t. Chocolates and candy are extremely dangerous for your dogs and should be avoided! Your dog might be tempted to try the turkey- be aware of any bones that could become lodged and cause an obstruction.
TOP TIP
Keep your Veterinarians and Emergency Vets phone number handy so you can quickly call if needed. If you think your dog has eaten something that it should be always recommend reaching out for professional advice as quickly as possible!
Flathead Pet Emergency
2564 Hwy 2 East
Kalispell MT 59901
406-257-6870
Here is the phone number for the 24-hour ASPCA emergency poison hotline 1-888-426-4435 if you have any concerns about potentially harmful substances ingested by your pet. 24-hr advice is given by specialists, even over the Christmas period.
We wish you a wonderful Happy Holidays!