Safe Happy Christmas With Dog

Christmas With Your Dog

Do’s and Don’ts for a Safe and Happy Holiday

Whoever said diamonds are a girl’s best friend, never had a dog!” – author unknown

Christmas is such a fun time of year… For dog owners, the holiday season means including their furry friends in the festivities. However, the excitement and all that goes with Christmas can pose challenges and dangers for your pup.

Here’s a guide to the dos and don’ts for ensuring a fun and safe holiday season for you and your dog.

Definitely Do!

1.  Keep Decorations Dog-Safe
   • Use pet-friendly decorations like shatterproof ornaments and avoid fragile items like glass or sharp-edged trinkets.
   • Secure your Christmas tree to prevent it from tipping over when your dog gets curious.
   • Choose LED lights that don’t heat up, and cover electrical cords to prevent chewing accidents.
2. Offer Dog-Safe Treats
   • Include your dog in the holiday spirit with treats made specifically for pets.
   • Cooked, unseasoned turkey or vegetables like carrots and green beans can be a tasty snack, but always check if human food is safe before sharing.
3. Create a Quiet Space
   • Christmas gatherings can be overwhelming for your dog. Set up a calm retreat with your dog’s bed, favorite toys, and water where they can relax if the activities become too active.
4. Supervise Around Guests
   • Some guests may not be too familiar with dogs, and children might unintentionally stress or hurt Fido. Monitor interactions to ensure everyone is safe and happy.
   • Tell your visitors not to feed your dog any table scraps unless you’ve approved it.
   • If things aren’t working out, now is a good time to use the safe space.
5. Stick to Your Dog’s Routine
   • Stick to your dog’s regular feeding, walking, and sleeping schedules as much as possible. Familiar routines provide a sense of comfort during the chaos of the holidays.
6. Use Pet-Safe Plants
   • Replace toxic holiday plants like poinsettias, mistletoe, and holly with artificial or pet-safe alternatives.
7. Clean Up Quickly
   • Wrapping paper, ribbons, and bows can be choking hazards if your pup decides to “help” with the unwrapping. Dispose of them promptly to prevent accidents.
8. Keep Your Dog Hydrated and Active
   • Ensure your dog has plenty of fresh water available, especially with extra indoor heating during the winter months.
   • Keep up with regular walks or playtime to burn off energy and keep your dog relaxed.

Definitely Don’t!

1. Don’t Feed Dangerous Foods
   • Avoid giving your dog harmful holiday foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, and anything containing artificial sweeteners like xylitol.
   • Fatty leftovers, such as turkey skin and gravy, can cause pancreatitis and should be avoided.
     • • Dogs can have the food in the above image, just don’t add seasoning and feed in moderation.
2. Don’t Leave Candles Unattended
   • A wagging tail or curious nose can easily knock over a candle, leading to burns or even fire. Always supervise candles or opt for battery-operated ones for safety.
     • • Another option are candle warmers that work without a flame.
3. Don’t Let Your Dog Become Overwhelmed
   • Loud music, fireworks, and large crowds can stress your dog. Keep noise levels reasonable and give them breaks when needed.
     • This is also a great time to use Fido’s safe space.
4. Don’t Leave Wrapped Gifts Unattended
   • Dogs have an incredible sense of smell and might find edible presents under the tree irresistible. Keep gifts with food items out of reach to prevent them from being opened (or eaten) early.
5. Don’t Use Tinsel or Small Decorations
   • Tinsel and small ornaments can look like toys to your pup, but are hazardous if swallowed. These items can cause choking or intestinal blockages.
6. Don’t Allow Access to Alcohol
   • Even small amounts of alcohol can be toxic to dogs. Keep drinks out of reach, and clean up spills promptly.
7. Don’t Forget About The Weather
   • If you live in a colder part of the country, remember that icy paths and snow can be uncomfortable for your dog’s paws. Use pet-safe de-icing products and consider booties for protection.
8. Don’t Ignore Stress Signals
   • Pay attention to signs of anxiety, such as pacing, whining, or hiding. If your dog seems overwhelmed, remove them from the stressful situation and provide comfort.

Christmas is a special time for making memories with your loved ones, and that includes your dog. By following these dos and don’ts, you can ensure your holiday celebrations are enjoyable and safe for everyone.

Happy holidays to you and your furry friend!

 

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At BowWow Fun Towne…

Dogs are our business, and our friends, and we understand how important your dog is to you.