10 Ways to Dog-Proof Your Home for the Holidays
While the holiday season brings joy, laughter, and the chance to spend time with our loved ones, it can also bring the challenge of safety regarding our pets. To ensure that both humans and canines can enjoy this festive season without incident, it is vital that you take the time to dog-proof your home. Luckily, our team has created a handy list of tips and tricks to create a positively safe environment for your four-legged companions during the holidays.
#1: Trim the Tinsel
One of the most dangerous decorations for pets is tinsel. While its sparkle adds a whimsical element of beauty to any tree, dogs or puppies who ingest it can develop very serious health issues. It’s best to opt for dog-friendly ornaments or place the tinsel well out of reach.
#2: Guard the Lights
No holiday tree is complete without lighting. However, loose wires and cords pose a potential hazard to curious pets. It’s best to keep the cords out of reach or use protective coverings to prevent any chewing. You may also consider using battery-powered lights to eliminate the risk of entanglement or electric shock.
#3: Say “No” to Poinsettias
Many plants that are classified as “indoor” are toxic to dogs. Unfortunately, this list includes holiday favorites such as mistletoe, holly, and even poinsettias. If you need floral beauty to enhance your home’s winter wonderland design, we recommend getting a few faux plants. Plus, you can reuse them next year!
#4: Create a Safe Space
Another trick to avoid mishaps is to create a designated dog-friendly zone in your home. Be sure to include their bed, favorite toys, water, and food. Not only does this give them a safe space to hang out in, but it also reduces their stress levels if you have a lot of guests coming over.
#5: Watch the Treats
Chocolate and some nuts and fruits are toxic to dogs. So, be sure to watch what people feed your pet. It’s best to keep a stash of your dog’s favorite yummies handy.
#6: Lock Up the Liquor
If you partake in alcoholic beverages for the holidays, make sure that the drinks are securely stored away. Alcohol can pose very serious threats to your pooches.
#7: Bundle the Cords
If you have multiple electric decorations that use cords, it’s best to bundle them together and secure them so that your dog doesn’t chew on them. Cord organizers are now designed to be hidden behind furniture to minimize the temptation to chomp down on them!
#8: Get Ready for Visitors
If you plan on having guests over for the holidays, they need to be aware of your dog’s specific needs and any rules you have for interacting with your pet. Be sure to educate your guests, so they can respect your dog’s comfort zone, especially if your pooch is nervous or gets overly excited.
#9: Don’t Forget About Playtime
The holiday season is one of the busiest times of the year, and it’s easy to forget about things. However, your pet’s playtime should not be one of them. Make sure that you carve out enough time for your dog’s regular exercise routine. This will help them be more relaxed and reduce the likelihood of poor behavior.
#10: Emergencies
Even if you abide by all of the aforementioned rules, accidents may still occur. Be sure to have the location of the closest emergency veterinary clinic on hand in case of an incident. Being prepared for the worst can make all the difference in the event of an unforeseen circumstance.
By implementing these dog-proofing tips throughout your home, you can ensure that the holiday season will be safe for your pets and enjoyable for all. From our team to your family, we are wishing you a pawsitively wonderful holiday season!
