PROJECT: THE 2024 HOLIDAY SEASON (PART 13) - KEEPING PETS SAFE

Dec 20, 20245 min read

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The festive season is a time for joy, celebration, and spending time with loved ones.

While this is an exciting period for families, it’s essential not to forget about your pets’ safety and well-being.

With all the holiday festivities, there are potential hazards that can affect your pets. Whether you are hosting gatherings or travelling, taking simple precautions will ensure that your pets stay safe, happy, and stress-free during this time.

FOOD SAFETY:

AVOID FESTIVE TREATS:
- It is tempting to share the holiday feast with your pets, but foods like turkey, ham and Christmas pudding can cause digestive issues or, worse, more serious health problems.
- Stick to pet-friendly treats instead.
CHOCOLATE DANGER:
- Chocolate is toxic to both dogs and cats, so be extra vigilant in keeping sweets and treats out of their reach.
- Even small amounts can be harmful.
GRAPES AND RAISINS:
- Both grapes and raisins can cause kidney failure in dogs, so make sure to keep these fruits far away from your pets.
ALCOHOL:
- Alcohol is a big no-no for pets.
- It can lead to poisoning, causing vomiting, diarrhoea, and even more severe health issues.
- Ensure that alcoholic drinks are kept out of reach.
ONIONS AND GARLIC:
- These common ingredients in festive meals can be toxic to dogs and cats, leading to upset stomachs or more serious damage to their red blood cells.

HOLIDAY DECORATIONS:

SECURE ORNAMENTS:
- Christmas trees, lights, and ornaments add beauty to the festive season, but they can also pose dangers.
- Ensure ornaments are securely hung to prevent them from falling and breaking and avoid placing them at the lower part of Christmas trees where pets can reach.
TINSEL:
- Tinsel may look beautiful, but it can be hazardous if swallowed.
- It can cause serious intestinal blockages, requiring emergency veterinary care.
ELECTRICAL CORDS:
- With more lights and decorations, there will likely be more electrical cords around.
- Pets, especially puppies and kittens, may be tempted to chew on it.
- Use cord protectors and ensure that cables are safely out of reach to avoid shocks or burns.

STRESS AND ANXIETY:

PROVIDE A SAFE SPACE:
- The hustle and bustle of the festive season can be overwhelming for pets, especially with strangers in the home.
- Create a designated quiet area where your pet can retreat to feel safe and calm.
MAINTAIN ROUTINE:
- Stick to your pet’s regular routine as much as possible, especially their feeding and exercise schedule.
- This helps reduce stress and ensures they remain comfortable during the chaos of holiday activities.
CONSIDER CALMING AIDS:
- If your pet tends to experience anxiety during busy times, consult your vet about calming aids, like pheromone diffusers, natural remedies, or anxiety wraps that can help them feel more relaxed.

TRAVEL AND BOARDING:

CHOOSE A REPUTABLE BOARDING FACILITY:
- If you plan on travelling, ensure that your pet stays in a safe, comfortable, and clean environment.
- Look for boarding facilities with experienced and caring staff.
- Check their reviews and ask for recommendations.
PREPARE FOR TRAVEL:
- If you are taking your pet along, make sure their travel experience is as smooth as possible.
- Use a well-ventilated crate, ensure that your pet has access to water, and bring familiar items like their bed or a favourite toy to comfort them during the journey.
- Always check that their microchip and ID tags are up to date before travelling.

LEAVING PETS AT HOME:

SECURE AND COMFORTABLE ENVIRONMENT:

SAFE SPACE:
- Create a designated safe space for your pet where they can relax and feel secure.
- A crate, a separate room, or a cosy corner of your home works best.
REMOVE POTENTIAL HAZARDS:
- Ensure the environment is free from hazards such as loose wires, toxic plants (like poinsettias), or small objects they could ingest.

ADEQUATE FOOD AND WATER:

SUFFICIENT SUPPLY:
- Leave enough food and fresh water for your pet, especially if you will be gone for a longer period.
AUTOMATIC FEEDERS:
- An automatic feeder is a great way to maintain a regular feeding schedule, especially for pets that tend to overeat or get anxious about feeding times.

ENTERTAINMENT AND MENTAL STIMULATION:

INTERACTIVE TOYS:
- Provide your pet with toys that can entertain and stimulate them mentally.
- Puzzle toys, treat-dispensing toys, or engaging games are great options.
PUZZLE FEEDERS:
- These not only slow down mealtimes but also encourage problem-solving, keeping your pet mentally active and engaged.

COMPANY AND SOCIAL INTERACTION:

PET SITTERS AND DOG WALKERS:
- If you are not home for extended periods, hiring a pet sitter or dog walker to visit your pet can offer companionship and reduce loneliness, especially for dogs suffering from separation anxiety.
PET CAMS:
- A pet camera allows you to monitor your pet’s behaviour and offer reassurance from a distance.

EMERGENCY CONTACT INFORMATION:

VET'S CONTACT:
- Always leave a list of emergency contacts with anyone caring for your pet, including your vet’s phone number and the address of the nearest emergency animal clinic.
HEALTH INFORMATION:
- Include your pet’s medical history and any medications they need to take.

CONSIDER BOARDING:

BOARDING FACILITIES:
- If your pet has severe separation anxiety or requires specialised care, consider boarding them in a reputable facility that offers personalised attention and care tailored to their needs.

IMPORTANT:

SUMMER HEAT:
- The festive season coincides with the South African summer, so be extra cautious about the heat.
- Never leave your pet in a car, even for a short period, and ensure that they always have access to fresh water and shade.
DANGEROUS WILDLIFE:
- Depending on your location, wildlife like snakes or ticks can pose a risk to pets during summer.
- Keep your pets away from tall grass or areas where wildlife may be present, and check for ticks regularly.
FESTIVE PET MARKETS AND EVENTS:
- If you are attending outdoor events or markets with your pet, ensure that the environment is pet-friendly and that your pet is not exposed to loud noises or large crowds that may cause stress.

It remains the pet owner's responsibility to ensure that pets are well cared for during the festive season.

Whether spending the holidays with them or

preparing to leave them in trusted hands, their safety and happiness should be a top priority.

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