As holiday festivities continue, the safety of our pets during this cheerful chaos often slips our minds. Pima Animal Care Center (PACC) has shared some critical tips for ensuring our four-legged companions stay safe amidst the celebrations. According to PACC, common holiday items like poinsettias, mistletoe, and holly can cause stomach problems or worse, kidney failure in cats if ingested. But it's not just plants that pet owners need to watch out for: holiday foods such as alcohol, chocolate, and certain sweeteners found in xylitol-laden treats are also harmful to pets. As for your festive decor, salt dough ornaments should be kept out of pets' reach, as they can cause seizures and, in extreme cases, death.
Additionally, with houses brightly lit for the festivities, it's important to be mindful of wires, which can be hazardous if a curious pet decides to bite down. PACC advises keeping them tucked away or covered. Also, while candles add ambiance, they pose a risk to wagging tails and agile cats, so they should be placed well above the reach of animals. When it comes to Christmas trees, they come with their own set of dangers, including the tree water, which could be toxic, sharp, broken ornaments, and tempting tinsel that could lead to an emergency vet visit. Even seemingly harmless snow globes can become a hazard if broken, the contents being potentially harmful if ingested by our furry friends.
The increase in guests during holidays also means pets may find more chances to slip outside unnoticed. PACC strongly emphasizes preparation to mitigate the possibility of a pet getting lost. They recommend ensuring that pets have a tag with the pet's name and your phone number, potentially avoiding a heartache should your pet wander off. If a new tag is needed, pet owners can stop by PACC’s adoption lobby at 4000 N. Silverbell Rd., or visit the Central Pet Store through PACC's website to get a complimentary one. They also advise checking collars, and if needed, a replacement is purchasable at the Central Pet Store, with half of all proceeds supporting PACC’s nonprofit partner, Friends of Pima Animal Care Center.
For more permanent identification, PACC promotes microchipping and regularly offers free chipping events, details of which can be found on their social media pages. Homeowners should also inspect their property for escape routes, such as holes in fences or unlocked gates. Preparing guests is equally essential—inform them about the importance of keeping indoor pets safely inside, and setting up a secure area for the pet to retreat from the holiday hustle can help keep them calm and contained. As per PACC’s guidance, "prepare guests. Pet owners should try to find a safe, calm, quiet place free from visitors and strangers to house their pet." It’s also suggested to chat with visitors about respecting the pet’s space, as too much unfamiliar interaction can be stressful for them.
For last-minute holiday needs or emergencies, PACC will be open on New Year's Eve from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., but will close on New Year's Day. For pet owners who want to ensure their companions are secure and comfortable during the ongoing celebrations, taking heed of PACC's advice can ensure that the holiday spirits remain high for both humans and their animal companions.
