We here at Very Important Paws Daycare love decorating for the holidays. Pets, however, can love it so much they play with it or try to eat the stuff and end up getting hurt. One of your responsibilities as an animal owner is to pick pet-safe holiday decor. Every decorating season should be accompanied by a checklist in your head of how to make it safest for your furry friends. Here are some safe decorating tips and ideas.
1. Hang It Up High
What ever you choose to decorate with, it will be safest for your pet if they can not reach it. Keep ornaments away from the bottom of trees and from shelves that animals can reach or climb up onto.
2. Stay Away From Edibles
Candy Canes, Gingerbread Houses, scented candles, and holiday plants such as poinsettias and mistletoe can pose a potential digestive danger to your pets. These particular items should not be left where pets can get to them. Although some of them are not toxic, cleaning puke is no good way to spend the holidays.
3. Sweat the Small Stuff
Small pieces such as ornaments and detachable parts such as bulbs and hooks are part of a recipe for disaster if mixed with your pets. Use solid ornaments and decorations, make of thick, solid plastic, wood or metal, that do not have many small parts that can come unhinged . Use the adage that if your pet can fit something in its mouth, it most likely will.
4. Prepare the Power
Electrical cords are a big hazard for curious animals with sharp teeth. Not only does it ruin your lighting set-up, it could prove fatal if your pet is electrocuted. Tack cords out of reach and use high outlets if possible. Block outlets from access with stacks of books or boxes so your pet (and even some small children) does not have easy access. There are even outlet protectors you can buy for added safety and security.
5. Decorations for Dogs
And cats, and birds, and other furry friends are available at many pet stores and retailers. When you haul out the decor, also haul out a set of holiday toys especially for your pet. Anytime Fido goes for something hanging from the tree, quickly hand him one of his own special toys to show him that’s what he should be playing with. Specially designed toys and decoration made specifically for your pets are a good way to keep your pets safe while giving them the opportunity to celebrate the holidays with you.
The Staff at Very Important Paws Daycare would like to wish you and your pets a Safe and Fun Holidays!