Glittering decorations, tasty foods, and festive parties are essential to the holiday season. Unfortunately, these elements can prove hazardous to your four-legged family members. The last thing you want is to spend your holidays hunting down an emergency pet doctor. Avoid health scares by taking these precautionary measures.

3 Ways to Keep Pets Safe Over the Holidays

1. Choose Decorations Wisely

If you have pets, hang Christmas tree decorations out of reach, especially breakables like glass baubles. If a curious kitty knocks one down and it shatters, they could cut delicate paw pads. Festive greenery can also pose a threat. Poinsettias are toxic to cats and dogs alike, for example, but Amaryllis shares the flower’s bright red hue and is pet-friendly.

2. Keep an Eye on Holiday Treats

While four-legged friends might find your holiday feast tantalizing, resist the temptation to feed them scraps. Turkey bones can splinter and cause a choking hazard if pets gnaw on them, and nutmeg, which is in many pies, contains myristica fragrans, a seed that can be toxic to animals. Chocolate also has pet doctors raising the red flag: It’s toxic to cats and dogs, causing vomiting, hypertension, and seizures if ingested. 

3. Prepare for Guests Appropriately

When hosting events at your home, make sure your pet has a quiet space to relax. Set aside food, water and a favorite toy in one room where guests won’t be. If your pet is sensitive to loud sounds—like New Year’s fireworks—turn on the radio or television, so they have white noise to block it out.

The pet doctors of Vintage Park Veterinary Clinic in Sacramento, CA, are dedicated to helping your cat or dog live a long and healthy life, so you can enjoy your furry friend for as long as possible. Their comprehensive diagnostic, medical, and surgical services include everything from spaying and neutering to flea control and dental care. You can view a list of all services offered by their pet doctors online. In emergencies, call their main number at (916) 688-5486 for instructions on how to proceed.