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Ithaca … Bah humbug. We don’t want to be Grinch-like, and pets do love to be a part of (and should be involved in) the action during the holidays, but some common-sense safety tips will help ensure your pet’s safety during the holidays.

Warmth and love beat cold and loneliness. Do not leave dogs or cats outdoors while the rest of the family is enjoying each other’s company inside! But aside from more love and attention, the Tompkins County SPCA offers these tips to help you enjoy holiday traditions while keeping your dog or cat safe from harm:


  •  Start with your holiday tree. Your pet may try to nibble on the decorations, so avoid glass ornaments and tinsel. Secure your tree properly, so your pet can’t knock it over. Make sure the tree stand is covered so your pet won’t drink the water. Keep electrical cords well-hidden so your pet can’t chew on them.
  •  Buy safely. Check labels to make sure that all the decorating products you buy are non-toxic.
  •  It may get you a kiss, but not from your pet. Mistletoe, holly and poinsettias are toxic to pets. If you receive one of these holiday plants as a gift, keep it well out of reach of your pet. Vacuum often to pick up any leaves or berries that might drop on the floor.
  • Think of them as kids with matches. Keep your pet away from lighted candles. Never leave candles burning in an unoccupied room, and supervise your pet closely around any fire or flame.
  • Keep your dog or cat away from holiday fare. A little treat may be OK, but food is the leading holiday hazard for pets. Turkey can cause problems because the bones tend to splinter and the skin is too fatty for pets. Eggnog can cause diarrhea. Alcohol and chocolate are also dangerous for pets.


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