The holiday season is upon us and there are certain things owners need to be aware of when including their furry companions in the festivities. Here are some things to consider to keep your winter holidays safe and fun for you and your pet.
Human Food and Treats
As tempting as it is to treat your farm dog or farm cat under the table, it is important to try and keep to their eating habits as close to their regular diet as possible. Poultry bones, such as turkey bones, can easily splinter, causing intestinal blockages, lacerations, and serious injury. Monitor your pets to stay away from the trash and ensure no holiday finger foods are shared from visiting guests.
Dangerous Decorations
A Christmas tree with tinsel and a curious pet can spell trouble. Avoid using tinsel, angel hair and fragile ornaments, and use strings to hang decorations instead of hooks. Ensure all chords are taped down and are inaccessible to animals, to prevent electrocution risks.
Christmas Trees
Secure your tree to the walls or ceiling, to keep it from falling over and place decorations slightly higher than paw height. One of the major hazards of Christmas trees are its pesky pine needles and strong fragrance (depending on the type). If tree needles are chewed by canines and felines, the oils released may cause irritations and stomach upset.
On the contrary, some ruminants are avid consumers and feeding a small flock of ruminants (of your own or of a local farm) provides a great way of recycling your tree. Cows, goats, and sheep love eating pine and it provides health benefits including high levels of vitamin C and antioxidants. Be sure that the tree is free from pesticides or colorants and do not abruptly change their diet by feeding large quantities of pine at once.
Learn more about different types of Christmas tree varieties here.
Poisonous Plants
While festive blooms brighten up a home, they can be dangerous if consumed by our four-legged friends. Mistletoe, holly, juniper, chrysanthemums, and azaleas are among the common holiday plants that are poisonous to animals.
Poinsettias milk white sap contains a chemical which can cause nausea, vomiting, drooling and diarrhea for dogs, while lily varieties can cause kidney failure in cats if ingested. It is best to opt for artificial plants or choose a pet-safe bouquet.
Loud Noises
It is known that various animals are capable of hearing lower and higher frequencies than humans are capable of detecting. High frequencies can easily frighten animals and potentially damage their sensitive ears. If you are hosting holiday events, give your animal their own space to retreat to as a place to hide out, snuggle and have access to fresh food and water.
As the countdown begins to New Years, remember to keep in mind noisy poppers that may spook any animals. Consider printing a notice and asking around your neighbourhood to see if they plan on lighting any fireworks. This may help you prepare to ensure your pet is indoors and safe before the fireworks go off.
Proper General Maintenance
Make sure yards and pasture fencing, as well as sheds and equipment are in good repair. Keep your pets and livestock always secure and protected. Check fence-line and housing facilities regularly to reduce the risk of enclosure and equipment failure.
Calm and Deliberate Movements
Holidays are a busy time for visiting and being visited. If your family and friends want to mingle with your furry friends, make sure they approach the animal slowly and calmly, so you do not startle them.
Did you know cattle, swine and horses have close to panoramic vision? Approach larger animals at the shoulder, rather than at the hind legs, as quick movement from behind may cause distress.
In case of emergency, save the phone number of your veterinarian, as well as the nearest emergency vet in your cell phone.
Your pets deserve to celebrate holiday traditions and activities too. Buy them a gift - whether it be new treats, new toys, or a festive outfit. Tis the season of giving after all. There is no one more appreciative than your pet.
Follow these simple guidelines and you can safely share your holiday spirit with all your loved ones, furry not. Enjoy your holidays and stay safe!