The razzle-dazzle of a shiny, lit-up Christmas tree, with all its sparkle and pizzazz, can sometimes look like a treasure-filled jungle gym to our pets. But the holiday season comes with hidden dangers for our furry, feathered, and scaled family members.
Holiday Décor Dangers
Pine needles, glittering strings of tinsel, garlands, glass ornaments, and electrical wires can all pose risks depending on the pets in your home.
Toxic Holiday Plants
Beautiful holiday greenery like poinsettias, holly, ivy, lilies, and mistletoe are festive but can be toxic to pets. It’s best to avoid them altogether or keep them well out of reach.
Sweet Treats: A Hidden Hazard
The delicious smell of chocolate and decadent desserts baking in the holiday home is irresistible to pets, but these treats should be stored safely out of reach. Many holiday foods are harmful and even life-threatening to animals.
A Precautionary Must-Have
Activated, pet-safe charcoal is a wise addition to any pet-friendly home. It can be used in emergencies to help neutralize certain toxins if ingestion occurs.
Mindful of Fumes
With all the extra baking and cooking this season, be cautious of fumes:
- Turkey cooking bags and air fryer fumes
- Space heaters with new or lingering residues
- Candles, especially around birds
Birds are particularly sensitive to airborne toxins due to their highly efficient respiratory systems. Even the smallest fumes from cookware, heaters, or candles can be dangerous for them.
Pet-Safe Candles
For homes without birds, Pet House candles are a safe and festive option. These paraffin-free, soy-based candles burn for up to 65 hours and are 100% safe for pets. Plus, they smell amazing! Stop by Petland to check out our delicious holiday scents.
By being mindful of these potential hazards, you can enjoy a festive, pet-safe holiday season filled with joy and sparkle—for everyone in the family!
