Wiregrass Seniors Magazine December 2017 DECEMBER ISSUE | Page 29

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Decorating
Greenery, lights and Christmas trees can make the
holidays festive, but they also pose risky temptations
for our pets.
• Water additives for Christmas trees can be
hazardous to your pets. Do not add aspirin, sugar,
or anything to the water for your tree if you have pets
in the house.
• Ornaments can cause hazards for pets.
Keep any homemade ornaments, particularly those
made from salt-dough or other food-based materi-
als, out of reach of pets.
• Tinsel and other holiday decorations also
can be tempting for pets to eat. Consuming them
can cause intestinal blockages, sometimes
requiring surgery.
• Flowers and festive plants can result in an
emergency veterinary visit if your pet gets hold of
them. Poinsettias, Amaryllis, mistletoe, balsam, pine,
cedar, and holly are among the common holiday
plants that can be dangerous and even poisonous
to pets who decide to eat them.
• Candles are very attractive to pets as well
as people. Never leave a pet alone in an area with a
lit candle; it could result in a fire.
Holiday Travel
Whether you take your pets with you or leave them
behind, take these precautions to safeguard them
whenever you’re traveling.
• If you’re traveling by air and considering
bringing your pet with you, talk with your veterinar-
ian first. Air travel can put some pets at risk, espe-
cially short-nosed dogs.
• Pack for your pet as well as yourself if you’re
going to travel together. In addition to your pet’s food
and medications, bring copies of their medical
records and any first aid supplies.
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