A dog is entangled with a Christmas ornament glances at pastries. (Photo : YouTube)
Individuals who are bringing home a new pooch this holiday season need to puppy-proof their homes. Danger lurks when pet parents least expect it, in the form of treats, yuletide plants, decors and electric cords. When the holiday party preparations go full gear, furry home companions may go unnoticed.
Utmost care must be taken to keep pets out of harm's way. Pet parents may invest on robust pet crates or gates as well as a leash, and healthy natural meals. Some of the dangers that new dog and cat owners need to be wary of include:
1. Toxic foodstuff
Chocolate-coated snacks that are delightful treats for humans can be toxic for dogs and cats. Chocolate can spell trouble, and can even be fatal if ingested by a pet. When a canine or feline exhibits symptoms that include vomiting, diarrhea, muscle rigidity, rapid breathing or unusually higher reflex responses and seizures following intake of chocolate, the pet owner must immediately bring the pet to a veterinarian.
Besides chocolate, other substances that must be kept away from pets are grapes, raisins, and leftovers such as fatty foods that contribute to pancreatitis. Holiday cocktails that a pet may ingest can lead to weakness, illness, a coma, or respiratory failure, according to American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.
2. Electric cords
Pets may get disentangled with the electric cord of the Christmas tree. Pet parents should guard against their pet experiencing electrical shock.
3. Holiday ornaments
Yuletide ornaments that pets may chew on can be choking hazards or cause of laceration of the pet's mouth, throat and digestive tract.
4. Christmas plants
Popular Christmas plants that continue to adorn many homes until the New Year celebration can snuff out a dog or cat's life. New research revealed that in many British homes with pets, close to 10 percent of felines and canines have become ill after accidentally ingesting plants, Fife Today reported.
Indulging or partying this holiday season can be smooth, happy and pet-safe. Pet parents can take precautions so that no accidents will occur to their furry friends.
