AKC Guidelines: Winter Care for Canines 3/3

Part 3 of 3

Holiday Safeguards

The winter season brings lots of fun holiday festivities, but pet-owners should keep in mind the following special precautions:

• The holidays are not ideal for introducing a pet into your family.  New puppies and dogs required extra attention and a stable environment, which the holiday season doesn't permit.  Also, a puppy is not a toy or gift that can be returned.  Instead, the AKC suggests giving a gift representative of the dog to come, such as a toy, leash, or bed.
• Holly, mistletoe and poinsettia plants are pet poisons!  Make sure they are kept in places your dog cannot reach.
• Review holiday gifts for dogs to make sure they are safe.  Items such as plastic toys and small rawhide sticks may be dangerous.
• Remove holiday lights from lover branches of your tree.  They may get very hot and burn dogs.
• Watch out for electrical cords.  Pets often try to chew them and may get badly shocked or electrocuted.  Place wires out of reach.
• Avoid using glass ornaments.  They break easily and may cut a dog's feet and mouth.
• Refrain from using edible decorations.  Your dog may knock the tree over in an attempt to eat them.  Also, commercial ornaments may contain paint or toxins in the preservatives.
• Whether your tree is live or artificial, both kinds of needles are sharp and indigestible.  Don't leave your dog unattended in the room with the tree.
• Tinsel is dangerous for dogs.  It may obstruct circulation and, if swallowed, block the intestines.
• Alcohol and chocolate are toxic for dogs, even in small amounts.  Keep unhealy, sweet treats and seasonal goodies out of reach.
• The holiday season is a stressful time for dogs. Try to keep a normal schedule during all the excitement.