Holiday Pet Safety Tips

The holiday season is a time for celebration and good tidings, but it can also present a specific set of worries if you have a pet. From tempting but dangerous foods to harmful decorations, there are lots of unsuspecting risks that could put your beloved furry friend in danger.

Whether you’re staying home for the holidays or bringing your pet along to a gathering, stay cognizant of these potential hazards to keep your pet safe this holiday season.

Decorations

Decorations can be mesmerizing to pets, and that’s part of the problem. Because it stays packed away for most of the year, pets are curious and more likely to tamper with holiday decor. Christmas trees, for example, are notorious for attracting curious kitties. In this instance, find a way to secure your tree to prevent it from toppling over and potentially harming your pet as a result. Avoid using breakable ornaments at the bottom of the tree and opt for shatterproof decorations.

Tinsel and ribbon are also irresistible for pets, but if ingested can cause serious intestinal blockages that may require surgery. Keep these types of decorations out of reach or avoid using them altogether. When wrapping presents, designate a wrapping room or area that’s inaccessible to your pets where ribbon and the like are safely stored away.

If using string lights indoors, make sure to tape down or cover cords to discourage any chewing, which could result in electrical burns or shock. Speaking of mood lighting – while balsam and cinnamon scented candles are a staple for the season, always place them in areas of your home that are out of reach from your pets to avoid a potentially dangerous fire hazard.

Holiday Plants

Many traditional holiday plants, while lovely to look at, are toxic to pets.

Poinsettias, although less dangerous than commonly thought, can still cause irritation to the mouth and stomach if chewed. Mistletoe and holly are more harmful, leading to serious gastrointestinal upset or even cardiovascular issues. Lilies are particularly lethal to cats, even in small quantities.

If you have pets in your home, consider using artificial plants made from silk or plastic to decorate, or make sure any real plants are kept far out of reach from any curious paws.

At The Dinner Table

One of the most common holiday temptations for pets comes from the kitchen. Rich, fatty foods like turkey skin and gravy can lead to pancreatitis, a painful and potentially life-threatening condition. In addition, bones from holiday meals – no matter how big – can splinter and cause choking or internal punctuation, which could lead to bleeding.

Many pet owners are aware that chocolate is dangerous to consume, but what about raisins? How about xylitol? All of these ingredients commonly found in holiday sweet treats are extremely toxic and can cause liver failure, even in small amounts. To avoid any mishaps, make sure to inform your guests about the importance of not feeding table scraps to your pets, and keep snacks and sweets away from table edges where they could be stealthily snatched.

Travel Safety

For some, the holidays are synonymous with travelling, and if you’re taking your pet with you on the road there are some safety measures to keep top of mind.

When driving, put your pet in a secure crate or use a pet seatbelt. Never let your pet roam freely in the car, as sudden stops can lead to serious injury. Before you leave, double check that your pet’s pet ID and microchip are up to date with your correct contact information.

If you’re flying for the holidays, check with your airline for their pet travel policies and consult with your vet about how to make the trip as stress-free as possible.

No matter how diligent you are when it comes to your pet’s safety, accidents can still happen. In these unpredictable moments, a pet insurance policy through AAA can provide the ultimate peace of mind. With pet insurance, you’ll have coverage for unexpected vet visits and emergencies, ensuring that your pet gets the care they need without causing financial strain.

Talk to a AAA insurance agent advisor about pet coverage options today