Fairfax County officials have released important safety guidelines for protecting pets during the holiday season. The advisory highlights two major categories of potential hazards: holiday decorations and festive foods. Common decorative items like tinsel, glass ornaments, lit candles, certain holiday plants, and even Christmas tree water can pose serious risks to pets if ingested or accessed. The guidance also warns about numerous holiday foods and drinks that can be toxic or dangerous to animals, including chocolate, xylitol-containing products, fatty foods, cooked bones, alcohol, grapes/raisins, and foods containing onions or garlic. The county emphasizes that by being aware of these hazards and taking appropriate precautions, pet owners can ensure their furry companions remain safe while still enjoying the holiday festivities.
The article outlines key hazards to pets during the holiday season, focusing on two main categories: decorations and foods/drinks.
For decorations, pet owners should be cautious with:
- Tinsel, which can cause intestinal blockages, especially in cats
- Glass ornaments that can break and cause cuts
- Candles that should be kept away from pets or replaced with battery-operated alternatives
- Toxic holiday plants like poinsettias, mistletoe, and holly
- Tree water that may contain harmful chemicals or bacteria
Regarding foods and drinks, several holiday items are dangerous for pets:
- Chocolate, which can cause various symptoms from vomiting to seizures
- Xylitol (a sugar substitute) that is highly toxic to dogs
- Fatty foods that may cause pancreatitis
- Cooked bones that can splinter and cause internal damage
- Alcohol
- Grapes/raisins which can damage kidneys
- Onions and garlic that can harm pets' red blood cells
The article emphasizes that with proper awareness and precautions, pet owners can ensure a safe holiday season for their animals.
Read the article at
https://fairfaxcountyemergency.wpcomstaging.com/2023/12/12/prep-tip-tuesday-pets-and-holiday-safety/?