Why do you need to worry about keeping your pet safe during the holiday season? Imagine for a moment your comfortable home turning into a chaotic environment…there is suddenly a cacophony of noise throughout your house, the furniture is all moved, there are new objects stuffed into your favorite cuddling spots, and there are strange people, sounds and smells coming and going all the time.  Your routine is interrupted, there is excitement and energy non-stop, and you feel a little left out in your own space.

As the holiday season approaches in Carrollton, Georgia, the activity can be difficult on pets. Dogs and cats are sensitive to changes in the home, particularly those who are normally the center of attention and now have to share the scene with a host of visits from family and friends, both young and old.  There are dangers present for your pets during this busy season that are not normally present in your home, and that you may not even be aware of.

Pets and holiday stress go hand in hand, but there are a few tips to keep your pet safe and happy during the holidays:

• Avoid overfeeding your pet:  you may be enjoying rich and delicious foods as part of the holiday festivities, buy changes in diet can spell problems for your pet…be careful what hits the floor in your busy holiday kitchen!

• Be mindul of breakables: Your cat may be playful and love to play with balls or a catnip mouse – she will also love to bat around those fragile glass ornaments! Make sure that they are far enough off the ground that they can’t get at them.

• Dangerous food items or ingredients you think are harmless may indeed be dangerous – or lethal – for your family pet. Chocolate is dangerous for dogs…make sure that the treats you put out for guests or friends can’t be reached...and be careful that little ones don't drop candies on the floor to be scooped up by a very excited pet!

• Accidental ingestion of medications: Holiday guests or family often come with all types of medications. Just as with small children, it’s important to make sure that they are kept safely out of reach.  Even ibuprofen can make your dog critically ill.

Let your pet participate in family activities, but not to the point that they get overwhelmed. Make a commitment to spend some ‘normal’ time with your pet each day, sticking to your daily walk or other recreational activity. If your dog or cat tends to get overexcited when there is a great deal of activity, do them a favor and separate them by putting their cage or carrier in a quiet place where they can stay relaxed.

Last but not least, keep the phone number for your Carrollton veterinarian handy in case there is an emergency...and don't forget to shop for your pet!

Happy Holidays – to you and your pet!