Protecting Your Pet: Holiday Safety For Pets

WSVN -- It was the night before Christmas and all through the house not a creature was stirring --- not even a…Well -- not exactly.

Most of us are so busy during the holidays we forget about our pets.

That's why this time of year they're more likely to get lost - sick or have an accident.

Dr. Jan Bellows from Hometown Animal Hospital: "It's very important for people to really pay attention to their pets during the holidays."

The glitter - the lights - eye candy to animals - can turn into a holiday hazard.

Dr. Jan Bellows: "It's bright. It is shiny. They're drawn to it and they don't know it can hurt them."

Make sure the tree is secure - even out of reach.

Help discourage climbing by spraying ammonia or bitter apple - animals hate the taste and smell.

Another problem...

Caroline Crane from the Humane Society of Broward County: "Put the dangling type and breakable ornaments on the top of the tree."

Don't keep presents with ribbons and bows under the tree - animals may chew on them.

That tree water is dangerous too.

Dr. Jan Bellows: "That water is a cesspool of disease and poisons."

Don't let them drink it.

An artificial tree may be a better alternative.

And careful with holiday plants.

Caroline Crane: "The poinsettias, holly and mistletoe are poisonous to your pets."

To prevent burns or electrocution - candles and extension cords must be out of sight.

Dr. Jan Bellows: "The number one worry is tinsel."

Dr. Jan Bellows: "It gets caught in the intestines and acts as a saw back and forth and it can kill them."

No table scraps - keep alcoholic beverages out of reach.

Put pets in a secure room when you have guests.

Caroline Crane: "Supervision, supervision, supervision around the holidays."

And to all a good night.

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

Contact: mmitzel@wsvn.com

Broward County Humane Society 
www.humanebroward.com
954-989-3977

Dr. Jan Bellows
Hometown Animal Hospital & Dental Clinic
954-349-5800