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(one ounce per pound) can lead to death. Keep cookies, morsels, and other chocolate treats covered and out of reach of dogs, especially, since cats usually do not have a taste for them. H OLIDAY L IGHTS From getting tangled in wires to receiving electrical shocks, tree lights need to be secured to protect your pet from winter hazards. Kittens love to pounce and play on shiny bright lights, so keep dangling strings in place with some tape or keep little ones out of the room. Dogs are a little less curious, but they may accidentally get wrapped up in loose lights while sniffing around the Christmas tree. Be sure to unplug the lights at night before you go to sleep. Roll the end of the lights in a ball and place it out of reach of pets. This will ensure they don't get mischievous during the night and hurt themselves while you are snoozing. C HRISTMAS T REES Christmas tree hazards for pets don't just include the lights. Bumping and jumping into unsecured trees can cause them to come crashing down on your pet. Be sure to tie support strings on both sides of the tree and screw the trunk into the tree holder tightly. Tinsel is not only a mess to remove off your tree after the holiday, it is also difficult to remove from your pet's intestines if eaten. Plus, it is small and sharp so is very painful for animals to digest. Falling ornaments can shatter and get in your furry friend's paws. Ornaments can also cut their mouth if eaten or chewed. You don't have to toss your favorite Christmas bulbs, but be sure to use secure hooks and place them high enough on your tree so your pet won't knock them off. T URKEY B ONES Human food should always be given to your pets with caution. But, during the holiday season, your dog might be especially awed by the spread of delectable treats on the table. Avoid tossing them a bone as it can splinter and cut their mouth and stomach lining. Instead, keep special treats just for the occa- sion. They will feel pampered and less likely to beg for your plate. A RTIFICIAL S WEETENER The sugar substitute, xylitol is being added to store-bought cook- ies, candies, and other holiday treats more often. If your pet decides he wants dessert, it can be toxic even in small amounts. The sweet- ener can cause vomiting, seizures, dizziness, and might even make their liver shut down. Just like chocolate, keep sweets out of reach of pets. They should be sealed in locked containers and kept on high shelves. A LCOHOL Most pet owners wouldn't dream of giving their pet a sip of beer or liquor, but alcohol can be added to foods too. That rum cake or bourbon banana bread are Christmas hazards for pets that you might not think about. So, do not think your pet deserves some of your leftover dessert. Liquid drinks might be a .......................................................................................... concern if your pet is adventurous and decides to jump on the table for a drink. Regardless of the form of alcohol, it will affect your pet's nervous system; their breathing may slow down and loss of coordination may occur. This can lead to vomiting or, in large amounts, death. V ISITORS Not all winter pet hazards are so obvious. Your pet can also become stressed or anxious about the increase of activity in your house. Visitors coming and going or even staying in your house can disrupt your pet's routine. Pets might be over- whelmed by noise or miss their afternoon walks. Make sure your pet feels comfortable by sticking to their nor- mal activities as much as possible. Also, give them a quiet place to retreat in case they need it. Put their bed in your room with some treats to make them feel special rather than left out. P REPPING FOR C OMMON H OLIDAY P ET H AZARDS Being aware of common holiday pet hazards is the first step to keeping your cat or dog safe. The next step is to prep your home for the holidays. Look at ingredient labels on food to avoid pet toxins, keep decorations out of reach with hooks and tape, and always mon- itor your pet's behavior during this busy time of year. n Find us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2020 35