California Pet Proofing for Holidays

There are hazards everywhere and your "kids" can't help but be fascinated with all the neat, new stuff to snoop into. A tree in the living room? No way! Plants of different colors and smells, and all those great packages tied with ribbons and bows are just so many temptations. There are a few things you can do to pet-proof your house so you don't end up spending your holiday at the vet with a sick dog or cat.

1.  Be selective about where you place candles or other open flames. You could have a crisis with just one curious paw or enthusiastic tail.
2.  Whether real or artificial, Christmas trees need special attention to reduce risk.
3.  Cover the water stand for a cut or live tree. Tree sap is toxic to pets, so you want to make sure they can't drink the water under the tree. Water preservatives can also be hazardous.
4.  Secure the tree to a wall or ceiling hook with sturdy fishing line. Got cats? Avoid tree locations near easy cat-access points like stairs, shelves or other furniture.
5.   Reserve fragile decorations for the upper half of the tree. Use wooden or plastic ornaments on the lower half. This will reduce breakage and/or swallowing risks for pets fascinated by dangling objects. Don't use any edible, or once-edible, ornaments.
6.  Be sure that wrapped gifts are safe from shredding by eager pets. If the contents are edible, or smell interesting, the risk is especially high for an early opening.  
7.  Place lights high enough to avoid pet tangles on the tree or elsewhere. To reduce temptation, secure any dangling or looping sections.
8.  Be vigilant about ornament hooks, tinsel, wire or ribbon that can end up on the floor or within reach. These small and/or dangling items are dangerous swallowing hazards.
9.  Keep your pets away from human foods, alcohol and bones (especially from fowl or pork) are especially hazardous for pets. Even candy wrappers can cause serious problems. You may want to provide pet-friendly treats so they can take part in the holiday fun.
10.  Some popular holiday plants have potentially dangerous leaves, berries or sap.

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