Keeping Pets Safe & Calm for the Holidays
The holiday season is a time of joy, but it also brings its share of potential hazards for our furry friends. As you transform your home into a festive wonderland, it’s crucial to be mindful of the seasonal foods & decorations that can pose risks to your pets. We all want to keep our pets happy, safe and comfortable during the holidays! Unfortunately, the same decorations and treats that we enjoy every holiday season can pose a threat to your dog’s health. Whether your pup sneaks a piece of your holiday feast off of the table, or they have an upset tummy from eating tinsel or other decorations, these holistic remedies can help get your pup back to good health in no time. From holly and mistletoe, to tinsel and string lights, here’s a guide to keeping your pets safe amid the holiday cheer.
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Unsafe Holiday Foods for Pets
Some foods that are traditional for us during the holidays can be unsafe or even toxic for dogs. According to a recent study, 64 percent of U.S. pet parents say that their dog has chewed on or eaten something they shouldn’t have during a holiday celebration.
1. Turkey Troubles: Avoid Cooked Bones and Rich Gravies – While a taste of plain, cooked turkey is generally safe, avoid giving your pets cooked bones, as they can splinter and cause harm to your pet. Rich gravies and sauces may also contain harmful ingredients like onions and heavy spices. Stick to plain cuts of meat without added seasonings.
2. Festive Sweets: Avoid Chocolate, Raisins, and Xylitol – Chocolate, a common holiday treat, is toxic to pets, especially dark chocolate. Keep desserts containing raisins away from pets also, as they can cause kidney failure. Additionally, xylitol, a sugar substitute found in some sweets, can be deadly for pets.
3. Stuffing Woes: Onions and Garlic – Onions, a common ingredient in stuffing, can be toxic to pets, causing gastrointestinal distress and other health issues.
4. Festive Fruits: Grapes and Raisins – Grapes and raisins can lead to kidney failure in pets, so avoid sharing bread puddings, fruit salads or other dishes containing these ingredients.
5. Not for Pets: Nuts and Nutmeg – Certain nuts, like macadamia nuts, can be toxic to pets. Nutmeg, a common spice in holiday recipes, can cause tremors and seizures in high doses. While the amount in most pies or cookies isn’t a high dose, it’s still best to keep nuts and nutmeg-laden treats well out of your pet’s reach.
6. Festive Beverages: Alcohol and Caffeine – Alcohol and caffeinated beverages can have severe effects on pets, including toxicity and nervous system issues. Ensure that your pets don’t have access to alcoholic drinks, coffee, or caffeinated teas.
Related: Safe Holiday Foods for Pets
What If My Pet Eats Holiday Treats?
If your dog eats toxic holiday foods or treats, they may experience vomiting, diarrhea, or more serious reactions. Additionally, even if your dog overindulges on safe foods, like pumpkin or sweet potatoes, they still may get a tummy ache (just like people!).
Step 1: Act Fast
If your dog has eaten anything toxic or overindulged in their favorite treats, it is important to act within the first hour. If your dog is exhibiting a serious reaction or losing consciousness, you will need to see a vet ASAP.
Not only should you act fast, but you should also not feed your pet anything else until their stomach settles. Take away all food and give your pet some time without eating any more food or treats, to let their stomach settle. If they’re still not feeling well, try a holistic remedy.
Step 2: Try a natural remedy
Holistic remedies can be safer solutions than over the counter stomach medications. For example, Nux Vomica can be used for pets who have overindulged. Arsenicum album can help with food poisoning, which includes poisoning caused by chocolate or other forbidden foods. These supplements can be found at most health food stores and holistic pet shops and are easily dissolved in water.
Additionally, CBD oil can help with nausea and an upset stomach, as well as relieving inflammation caused by a reaction to toxic foods. CBD can be administered directly to the gums and can help restore equilibrium to your pet.
Step 3: Re-introduce mild, bland food
You pup’s tummy will likely be a bit sensitive for the next few days. After all, if you had food poisoning your first meal afterward wouldn’t be a large spicy burrito! I recommend V-Dog for sensitive tummies and lots of water and rest.
You can also help soothe your dog’s tummy with a bland broth recipe. Place a few pieces of chicken in about 5 cups of water and bring it to a boil. Simmer the broth for about two hours. Strain the broth into a bowl and feed your dog a few tablespoons once it has cooled. This can help soothe an upset tummy without medications.
Pets & Holiday Decor
1. Festive Foliage: The Dangers of Holly, Mistletoe, and Poinsettias – While holly, mistletoe, and poinsettias add a touch of holiday magic, they can be toxic to pets if ingested. Keep these plants out of reach or opt for pet-friendly alternatives to ensure a safe and happy celebration.
2. Tinsel Trouble: The Sparkling Risk – Tinsel may be a staple for trimming the tree, but its shiny allure can be irresistible to pets. Ingesting tinsel can lead to serious health issues, including intestinal blockages. If you have curious pets, consider using alternatives like garlands made of pet-safe materials.
3. String Lights and Wires: A Twisted Temptation – Chewing on electrical cords from string lights can result in electric shocks, burns, or other injuries. Secure loose wires and use pet-proof covers to prevent your pets from turning these festive decorations into a shocking experience.
4. Christmas Tree Water Woes: Sap and Additives – The water in the Christmas tree stand may contain sap or additives that can be harmful if ingested by your pets. It can also be a great spot for bacteria growth, and the water sits. Cover the tree stand or use a pet-proof barrier to prevent access.
5. Candle Cautions: Avoiding Burns – Candles create a cozy ambiance, but an unsupervised pet can accidentally knock them over, leading to burns or fire hazards. Opt for flameless candles or place traditional candles in secure holders out of your pet’s reach.
6. Unwrapping the Risks: Gift Wrap and Ribbons – Wrapping paper, ribbons, and bows may seem harmless, but they can pose a choking hazard or cause digestive issues if ingested. Keep gift-wrapping materials out of your pet’s reach and dispose of them promptly.
What if My Pet Eats Holiday Decor?
If you are not sure that your dog or pet has dined on the décor, watch their behavior. Are they avoiding food and water? Acting strangely? Chances are, they have been eating something they shouldn’t.
Remember: if your pet begins vomiting, acting lethargic, and you suspect they have ingested harmful decorations, take them to the vet immediately. Sometimes they will have to pass the object, as it may be stuck in their throat or bowel, which will require intervention.
Step 1: Feel your Pet’s Abdomen
Does your pets abdomen or tummy area feel hard or blocked? Do they seem to be having trouble urinating or defecating? If their abdomen feels hard or they seem to have trouble with their bowels, you may need to seek help from your vet. If their abdomen feels bloated but they are acting otherwise okay, try a holistic remedy. Again, acting in the first hour can make a huge difference, so remember to keep an eye on your pet during the holidays.
Step 2: Use Natural Remedies
Phosphorus and calendula can both help the body expel the object and repair tears and rips in the esophagus. CBD oil can also help work as a lubricant and anti-inflammatory to help the object move through the digestive tract. Remember: if you feel the object is large or is causing a major blockage, call your vet immediately. If the item is small, your dog may have pain while passing it, but should be okay.
CBD Dog Treats for A Calm Holiday Season
When it comes to showing love to your furry friend this holiday season, CBD Dog Health’s CBD dog treats are the perfect choice. While your table is laden with tempting delights, it’s important to offer your pet treats that are not only delicious but also safe and beneficial.
Blanche’s Edibles, our CBD-infused dog treats, are a fantastic option for pet parents seeking a nutritious and safe treat for their pets during the holiday festivities. These wholesome treats are meticulously crafted with real whole food ingredients, including pure coconut oil from the family farm in the Philippines, ensuring a delightful and healthful experience for your pet.
Our vegan CBD edibles are low-calorie, hypoallergenic, and free from grains and gluten. Infused with our proprietary full spectrum hemp extract, sourced from Colorado, each treat is individually sprayed with the exact milligrams of CBD. This precision guarantees your pet a consistent and reliable dosage, providing the calming benefits of CBD to keep them stress-free and comfortable during your holiday parties and travel plans.
Keeping Your Pet Safe & Calm During The Holidays
Remember, the best way to keep your pet safe from upset tummies or more serious complications, is prevention. Make sure to keep forbidden items, including decor, toxic foods and plants, out of reach of pets. With the right preparation, you and your pets can enjoy a safe, happy holiday season.
Don’t forget the holiday season can be stressful for pets, and calming CBD can help them stay stress-free and comfortable as guests come over, or as you plan your travel arrangements. Treat your furry friends with safe holiday foods for dogs, and the calming benefits of CBD for pets this holiday, with our Calm Holiday Bundle. With our Calm CBD oil for keeping your pets calm for the holidays, and Blanche’s Edibles for a nutritious and delicious CBD-infused holiday treat! The best CBD for holiday pet anxiety, bundled together for better savings.
