Keep pets safe during the holidays by following these essential guidelines for pet-friendly decorating:

Keep Dangerous Items Out of Reach

• Avoid string tinsel, loose lights, and broken ornaments
• Store batteries, chocolate, and sugar-free candy containing xylitol safely
• Skip homemade salt-dough ornaments which can cause salt poisoning
• Secure lights with cable ties and use low-heat LED options
• Avoid pet costumes with small parts

Choose Pet-Safe Decorations

• Use artificial trees and garlands (pets are less attracted to them)
• Select shatterproof ornaments
• Avoid flocked or snow-covered artificial trees
• Use framed wrapping paper for wall decorations

Protect Your Holiday Setup

• Distract pets with puzzle toys or scratching posts
• Use pet gates to restrict access to decorated areas
• Apply double-sided tape or aluminum foil around tree base
• Secure ornaments with strong anchors instead of hooks
• Anchor trees to walls or ceiling for extra stability
• Use bitter-tasting spray on lower branches
• Keep tree water free of additives
• Place candles out of reach and never leave unattended

Monitor Pet Safety

• Watch for signs of illness like reduced appetite or listlessness
• Keep emergency vet contacts readily available
• Save poison control numbers:
  • ASPCA Animal Poison Control: 888-426-4435 ($95/incident)
  • Pet Poison Helpline: 855-764-7661 ($85/incident)
• Confirm your vet's holiday availability in advance

Related Articles

Previous Articles