Holidays 2007

CHICAGO (CBS) ― This year, don't just deck the halls, pet proof them! After all, you don't want to spend part of the holiday making an emergency visit to your veterinarian. The Chicago Veterinary Medical Association has some helpful tips for pet owners this Christmas.


HANG THE HOLLY, OUT OF REACH

Holly and mistletoe are lovely, but they have something else in common. They are both poisonous. In addition, the sap and leaves of a poinsettia can cause serious gastric distress in your pets. The Chicago Veterinary Medical Association advises pet owners to keep these seasonal plants away from their pets.


OH CHRISTMAS TREE, BE SECURE

You see a Christmas tree. Your cat sees a challenge. So make sure your tree is well-secured. You may want to anchor the top of the tree to the ceiling or secure it to a wall. That way if your cat chooses to climb it, or your dog beats it with his tail, it should stay standing.

Any sharp or fragile ornaments should be placed high on the tree, so your pet can't reach them. Tinsel icicles, string and small ornaments can be easy to swallow but difficult, or even dangerous, to digest.

Some people mix sugar, aspirin or preservatives in the water for the tree stand. All three can cause stomach upsets. You're better off using plain water.


ELECTRICAL CORDS, LIKE TOYS BEFORE CHRISTMAS, SHOULD BE OUT OF SIGHT

Electrical cords are tempting for kittens and puppies. The cords for your holiday lights should be tacked down and covered.


WRAP YOUR PRESENTS, NOT YOUR PET

There's nothing cuter than a puppy or kitten with a bow around its neck. But those ribbons are a choking hazard. And if swallowed, they can lead to an intestinal obstruction or bunching of the intestine. That may require surgery to repair. Plastic or foil wrap can also choke a pet or cause digestive problems.


FIRE... BAD!

Never leave your pet near an unattended fireplace or candle. Make certain your fireplace has the appropriate screens to protect against stray sparks and embers. Your holiday candles should be kept in an area well out of reach of curious paws or happy tails.


ROUTINE... GOOD!

The increased activity and number of visitors to your home during the holiday season may upset your pet's normal routine. Try to keep your pet on a regular schedule for meals, exercise and play. And while it may be hard to resist those big brown eyes, many holiday treats are dangerous for pets.

Chocolate, macadamia nuts, xylitol-sweetened gum and candy, or alcoholic beverages can all cause serious health problems. You should also put away leftover food and "pet proof" your trash. Plastic wraps and bags, six-pack beverage holders, fat trimmings and bones are all dangerous if ingested.

The best treats are healthy ones, made specifically for pets. Ear scratching is good, too... and belly rubs!


Our thanks to Susan Morris at the Chicago Veterinary Medical Association for these tips.

The Chicago Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA) is an association of more than 1000 veterinarians and 4000 support staff who lovingly assist Chicago area pets and their families. Since 1896, the CVMA has been dedicated to the health and well-being of animals; providing its members with nationally recognized continuing education and professional services; and the community at large with public awareness and educational programming regarding the importance of appropriate pet care.

(© MMVI, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)