The holidays are almost here, and it's time to start planning your celebrations. While spending the holidays with your pet is a wonderful gift, the holidays can be full of hidden dangers for your furry friend. As you prepare for the upcoming season, knowing what to look for and how to avoid potential disasters is essential.

In this article, we'll discuss some of the most common holiday hazards and some simple tips for keeping your pet safe.

💫 Holiday Decor 

From twinkling lights to shiny ornaments, holiday decor can be an enticing new toy for your furry friend. Unfortunately, decorations can also be dangerous for your pet's health. Because of this, it's important to keep your pet away from fragile ornaments and monitor them closely as you set up your decor. 

Ribbon and tinsel are some of the most common concerns when it comes to decorating hazards for your pet. Unfortunately, these items can cause dangerous intestinal blockages that require surgical intervention if ingested. In some cases, they can also become a choking hazard. The best way to keep your pet safe is to avoid using these decorations altogether. At the very least, you should ensure they are kept out of your pet's reach.

 Additional electrical cords for festive lights are another concern when it comes to decorating your home. If your pet is an aggressive chewer, consider using cord protectors to limit cord damage and reduce your pet's risk of electrical shock. It's also a good idea to use outlets that are difficult for your pet to access.

💥 The Importance of Pet Fire Safety  

Whether you are lighting a menorah or decorating the table for a Christmas feast, candles are a common centerpiece during holiday festivities. Whenever you have an open flame, it's essential to be mindful of basic fire safety. However, it's especially important around pets.

 A curious cat could accidentally burn themselves, or a wagging tail could topple your flame. Because of this, it's essential to keep lit candles far away from your pets and never leave a candle unattended. You may also want to consider battery-operated candles to eliminate any fire risk.

 In addition to using caution around candles, you'll also want to be mindful of fireplaces in your home. Barriers can be used to keep your pet at a safe distance to avoid accidental injuries. If your pet enjoys lying by the fire to keep warm, you'll need to monitor them closely to ensure they 

🍪Toxic Treats 

Holiday celebrations are often full of food and tasty treats to share. However, not all of these treats are appropriate for your furry friend. Baked goods containing nuts or raisins should never be given to your pet. Likewise, it’s essential to keep anything containing chocolate out of your pet’s reach.

Another important toxin to be aware of during the holidays is xylitol. Xylitol is a sugar substitute commonly used in sugar-free gum and candy. However, it is also used in certain kinds of nut butter and a variety of other sweet treats. Xylitol is extremely toxic to pets and can cause liver failure. Even when consumed in small amounts, xylitol ingestion can be fatal. Because of this, it's critical to keep xylitol-containing products away from your pet and read labels carefully to avoid accidental ingestion. 

As you look for toxic treats that may be lurking in your home, it's important to remember that even if a food isn't toxic for your pet, it can still be problematic. Fatty foods can cause digestive upset and a condition known as pancreatitis. As a result, it's best to avoid feeding table scraps altogether and stick to treats specifically made for pets. 

When throwing a party, remind your guests to avoid feeding your furry friend or leaving food unattended. You never know when your pet may try to sneak a tasty snack, and it's essential to take precautions to keep them safe. 

Unfortunately, accidents can happen, and it's possible your pet will eat something they're not supposed to. If your pet has consumed something toxic, call your veterinarian to discuss treatment options. If you're unsure if what they've eaten is dangerous, you can call the Pet Poison Helpline for advice. 

💚 Summary

With the holidays just around the corner, it's important to be mindful of safety hazards and take precautions to keep your pet out of danger. At Voyager Harness, we are proud to offer a variety of pet care essentials to help you spread some holiday cheer. We hope these tips will help keep your pet out of danger and allow them to enjoy a happy and healthy holiday season.