You’ve been dreaming about a cute puppy in your stocking. It was the vintage Christmas card which did it. You know the one, the stocking is hung by the chimney with care a sweet teddy bear face peeking over the side. But whether you’re choosing a puppy for you or your child, or if you already have a furry friend, it’s the holidays; what’s fun for the family may be dangerous for your pet. So, while we hope you have a holly jolly holiday, please keep these tips and tricks in mind as you decorate and celebrate.

If you’ve been following our social media posts, you already know the following aren’t pet-friendly or should be placed out of reach.

• Tinsel
• Christmas tree lights hung low
• Holly and Mistletoe 
• Chocolate and unattended cocktails, like eggnog
• Scrap wrapping paper, ribbon, and string
• Edible tree decorations 
• Lit candles placed high above and out of reach

And if you haven’t seen our social media posts, check them out here and hum to the tune of the twelve days of Christmas song. Thought we’d put a little spark in our holiday reminder. Preparing for a party or a family gathering? Below are a few tips for an even more pet-friendly holiday.

5 Tips for a Pet-Safe Holiday

1. Create an Escape for Your Pet. New people, new pets can cause stress for your pet. Give them a quiet space they can escape to. Have fresh water, a favorite toy, and somewhere they can curl up to recharge and rest.
   
2. Keep Areas Clear. Make sure things like medications are safely stored behind closed doors. Clear the table when the dining’s done. This keeps pets from scrounging and ingesting things which can make them sick or have you making a run to the vet emergency room. Table scraps include turkey skin, raisins, and grapes just to name a few.
   
3. Potpourri and Plant Placements. Smells of the holiday season evoke memories both made and remembered. But beware the essential oils and leaves of potpourri and put those delicious smells where intrepid pets can’t reach. You already know holly and mistletoe are dangerous, but don’t forget about pine (and pine needles), cedar, balsam, and even poinsettias should be placed with a mindful eye.
   
4. Low Hanging Lights and Ornaments Can be a Hazard. A misplaced throw of a favorite toy or a wagging tail can wreak havoc on low hanging ornaments or lights. Keep this are clear, if possible, as broken ornaments are hazardous to all – pets and people. 
   
5. Homemade Ornaments Can be Tempting. Food-based ornaments like those with salt-dough, glitter, and food coloring can be especially tempting. Raise them high as you celebrate keeping memories alive and making new ones. 

If your pets are comfortable around people and other pets, if you’ve chosen to have a pet-friendly gathering, be aware of exits. You don’t want them escaping when all eyes are on the host or hostess, do you? Puppies especially can sneak away easily and should be held, be safely ensconced in a crate or fenced area (whether in or out). You could even nominate someone to watch over them so you can focus on your guests. 

Whatever you choose, be mindful this season, and start your new year with happy memories of the holiday; you, your family, and your fur-legged companion. And if you’re traveling with your pet for the holidays, we encourage you to read this article on how to keep it a stress-free and fun for everyone.

From all of us at Golden Cavaliers, we wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!