Christmas is right around the corner. With all the hustle and bustle going on around her, the holidays can be a stressful time for your dog. It can also be a dangerous period for her since there are so many ways she could have an accident even at home.
So, here are some tips to keep your dog safe during this season. Keep these in mind to make sure that your pooch can enjoy Christmas with the rest of the family.
Decorating your home for the holidays is a must for this season. But, remember that your dog will be curious about the shiny baubles, sparkly lights, and that huge tree that you are putting up in the living room. This curiosity can cause some potential safety problems.
Install your Christmas tree in a corner. This will limit your dog’s access to it. Arrange inedible parcels around the tree so that your dog will have fewer ways to get near it.
Find ways to stabilize the tree. Put it in a big, immovable base. Tie a cord around its trunk and loop the ends to the window or grills. With these safety precautions, the tree will not fall even if your dog accidentally bumps against it.
You could also buy a tree that’s small enough to put on top of a table. Your dog will not be able to bump against it.
If you buy a live tree, keep the area around it clear of pine needles. These could cause your dog to have an upset stomach or puncture it.
Also, be aware that some dogs are allergic to the mold, spores, and needles of a live tree.
Before you buy a one, do an allergy test first. Let your dog sniff a sample of the tree’s cones or needles. If she doesn’t show any allergic reactions, then you can go ahead with your purchase. If she shows allergic symptoms, then you might want to buy an artificial tree for your pet’s sake.
Make sure that the tinsel, lights, and other decorations are out of your dog’s reach. Tinsel is especially deadly. It might block your pet’s intestines. Only surgery can clear the blockage.
Avoid putting up edible ornaments. No matter how much you try to keep your dog away from it, it will be too enticing for her to ignore it. She might get into more accidents if she tries different ways to get to the treat.
Tape and hide all wires. This is important, especially for the Christmas lights. Your dog could get entangled in them and get electrocuted.
Candles have to be kept away from a running body or a wagging tail. An accident could mean a fire.
Do not let your dog get hold of mistletoe, holly, or poinsettia. These plants are toxic to her.
Depending on her breed and size, she might experience a skin rash, vomiting, diarrhea, or other dangerous reactions if she ingests any of these plants.
Remember that human foods are generally not good for dogs. Many holiday food is even toxic to your pet. Some of them are chocolate, macadamia nuts, raisins, and grapes.
Make sure the treats you give her do not contain ingredients that may be harmful to her.
Try to do your gift wrapping in a room where your dog cannot interrupt you. She might eat the wrapping paper or cloth. Or, she could become entangled in the string or ribbons. Scissors and cutting knives are also dangerous around a pet. If you don’t have an extra room, make sure that your equipment and materials are on a table that your pet cannot reach.
If you’re looking for gifts for your pet, buy ones that will challenge her mind or clean her teeth. Make sure that it is appropriate for her size.
What better way to make your dog feel like a big part of the family than putting her in pajamas or clothes that match your own? Find ones made from materials that she will like and be comfortable in.
As stated above, the holidays can be stressful for your dog. She can feel the energy of the whole house. But she doesn’t know why everything is so hectic. She might become too stressed because of this.
So, remember to give your pet some downtime. Spend hours quietly enjoying each other’s company away from other people. You can do this while out for your regular walks. Exercise is one good way to let her get away from the noise and let her de-stress.
With these tips, you can be sure that you and your pet will be able to enjoy a safe and happy Christmas.
Spring is finally here, and as a dog owner, it's important to make sure your furry friend is ready for the season. With a little bit of effort, you can help your furry friend transition smoothly into the spring season.
Here are seven dog care tips to keep in mind:
