Notice how quickly everything around us changed from Halloween decor to Christmas on November 1st? It seems like we barely had time to stock up on discounted trick-or-treat candy, and now everybody is hanging up lights and displays for the next big holiday. For pet owners, this can be a time of great excitement and also concern. With the pet costumes stored until next year, we must be mindful of their safety as we prepare for winter.

Christmas Tree Safety

Whether you bring out the artificial tree in early November or wait until after Thanksgiving to pick up a genuine fir, it’s important to go in with a pet-proofing plan. This is not to say your dog or cat will immediately interfere with your decorating, but accidents can happen. New items brought into the home are curiosities, and your pets may be underfoot while you sort out the tree. Head off any potential disaster with a few simple precautions:

• Plan ahead where the tree will stand in your home, preferably in a corner where it will be well anchored.

• Keep your pets out of the room during setup and decorating. Use non-breakable ornaments and avoid small decorations that could be accidentally swallowed.

• Set-up a small pet-proof border–a fence, a tinfoil skirt, and/or pet deterrent spray–to discourage your pets from coming too close. 

• Watch your pets especially if you have a live tree. If you find your dog or cat drinking out of the water dish, contact your veterinarian.

Lights & Displays

Inside or out, multi-colored holiday lights and displays inspire joy. When pets get too close to one and cause damage or injury, however, the festive mood dims. You may keep your holiday decor subdued this year or maybe you want to outdo all the neighbors. Be careful of your pets either way:

• Indoors, tape down any lengthy electrical cords and cover if possible to prevent gnawing and tripping.

• When hanging decorations, in or out of the house, keep your pets secure when you’re on a ladder or raised surface.

• Place fragile displays like ceramics out of reach of curious paws.

Guests & Outings

Holidays can bring guests, and lure you out into the neighborhood to see the lights and carolers. If you expect your pets to be around large crowds of people this season, consider a calming aid or distraction toy to help them cope. When walking the dog around the neighborhood, keep them on a leash and be mindful of their behavior. Added sights and sounds during the winter holidays may amplify your pet’s anxiety, so use good judgment when going out. You may want to keep your dog home for some events.

When it’s time to holiday shop for your pets, Care-A-Lot Pet Supply has an amazing selection of toys and gifts, pet beds, pet food, and other care items. Visit any of our four physical stores or shop online this season.