We all know that dogs like to get into things. They like to rip things up and they have a great time figuring out what their boundaries are. However, during the holidays they tend to get into things even more because of all the new and exciting decorations. Chasing them around so they don't knock things over or eat them can be challenging.
However, if they eat or get tangled in any of these decorations, it can also be bad for their health. This is why knowing what they should avoid and how to protect them will keep your pet as healthy as possible.
Holiday decorations that are bad news for pets include:
The sap of the poinsettia may cause blistering, similar to poison ivy on contact with some persons unless washed off immediately. Poinsettias and other toxic houseplants should be kept out of reach of small children and pets.
Eating large amounts of mistletoe can be highly toxic to pets, causing gastrointestinal upset and even heart arrhythmias. These are caused by the chemical phoratoxin, related to ricin, the highly toxic compound found in the castor bean plants.
Pets that like to dig in pots should be kept away from the poisonous bulbs of amaryllis, cyclamen, hyacinth, paper whites, daffodils and jonquils.
Bubble lights may contain poisonous chemicals. Methylene chloride, the chemical in bubble lights can result in gastrointestinal problems, pneumonia and irritation to the eyes and skin. Electrical shock may occur from defective cords or from pets chewing on them. Electrical shock can cause burns, difficulty breathing, abnormal heart rhythm, loss of consciousness and death. Immediate attention by your veterinarian is necessary.
Eating tinsel or items such as ribbon, called linear foreign bodies, can cause serious damage to the intestine. If not caught in time, infection of the belly cavity develops. Pets quickly become ill with signs including vomiting, diarrhea, belly pain and sometimes fever. Surgery is required to remove foreign matter that does not pass out on its own.
Cats and dogs aren’t necessarily objective as to where they get their drinking water even though they may have their own water bowl. There is just something enticing about the possibility of a new source. If you add chemicals to the water meant to keep your tree fresh, be sure to read the label to make sure it is safe for pets.
The holidays are a special time and the best thing a pet owner can do is be aware of the common toxins evident at this time of year and pet-proof your home accordingly.
It turns out that dogs eating mistletoe or those festive bubble lights are more than just an annoyance you'll have to clean up. These decorations can cause serious problems for your pet and make them very sick.
It may be cute when your dog gets a hold of some ribbon or tinsel but this can also mean severe stomach problems for them.
You don't have to avoid these decorations completely. It is just a good idea to pet proof your home as much as possible during the holidays. That way you can avoid having a sick pet on your hands.
To learn more about holiday items that may not be safe for your pet, please visit The Bulletin.
