Holiday Decorations & Pet Safety

It’s about that time of year, the time which brings so many of us joy and happiness.  We slowly begin to decorate our homes, and our trees, ready in time for that special day towards the end of the month.  But what about your beloved pets?  

Here are the top 10 holiday decorations to avoid because of the dangers they pose on your pets.  

LET’S BEGIN…

#10: CHRISTMAS TREES:   this one is a toughy…it’s hard to just not have a tree during the holidays, but dogs and cats tend to jump up when they see a tree, climb up, and try to play with the ornaments, which may lead to the tree falling down.

#9: IMITATION SNOW:  although this looks very neat on the windows of our homes or on our Christmas trees, it can be very hazardous to pets if ingested.

#8: PRESERVATIVES ON YOUR TREE:  chemical preservatives are sometimes used on trees to keep them fresh longer, but because of the chemicals, if your pet licks the tree, or drinks the water, it is extremely poisonous.

#7: EDIBLE ORNAMENTS: candy canes are very festive, and it’s very fun to make homemade ornaments, but if your pet tries to eat it, they will be eating all the sugar, the toxic glue, and potentially some hazardous and poisonous materials.  Place them high on the tree.

#6: LIT CANDLES: Be mindful to keep lit candles far away from pets as they may become curious and either burn themselves or knock over the lit candle.

#5: CHRISTMAS LIGHTS: keep the lights away from the bottom because that makes it very easy for your dog or cat to find a new chew toy.

#4: HOLLY BERRIES: according to the ASPCA, holly berries are considered potentially toxic if consumed in large amount and they may result in gastrointestinal irritation and depression of the central nervous system.

#3: ANGEL HAIR: angel hair is finely spun fiberglass that was used in vintage decorations, but are no longer on the market.  If you have any old decorations made out of angel hair, please don’t use them due to the health concerns.

#2: DELICATE OR TREASURED ORNAMENTS: if you can’t stand the thought of a sentimental ornament breaking, your best bet is to put it somewhere a pet can’t get to.

#1: TINSEL: it is possibly the most dangerous holiday decoration for your pets.  If ingested, even a little strand, may lead to severe illness and even deadly effects of intestinal obstruction.  Stay Away!