A Happy Holiday ‘How-To’ With Pets

December 16, 2021 – We’re here to help Make Happy Happen for the holidays!

Read on for more tips on how to make sure your pet stays happy and healthy while enjoying the holiday season with you:

PET-FRIENDLY DECORATING
Time to the deck the halls! With all the lights and tinsel galore, there are a few precautions to keep in mind.

Keep wires out of reach: With all those lights and the tree lit, it can be tempting for your pet to chew on cords. Wires can have a potentially lethal shock and battery packs can cause severe burns if punctured.

Avoid tinsel: Cats in particular love to play with this sparkly decor. If ingested, this feline favorite can create issues for their digestive tract, cause vomiting, and possibly lead to needed surgery.

Be careful with Mistletoe and Holly: Both Mistletoe and Holly can create gastrointestinal problems for your pet when ingested. If possible, opt for the pet-friendly option with artificial holiday plants.

HOLIDAY ANXIETY
With all these new sights and sounds, your pet might start to feel extra anxious. Some symptoms of anxiety to look for include: extra barking/meowing, aggression, destructive behaviors, and house soiling. Keep an eye on their body language to see if they need some space or help calming down.

If you do notice your pet experiencing anxiety, consider creating a safe and secure space for them. Allow them to be in a room with their favorite toys or treats away from loud holiday music or guests. You can also consult with your veterinarian for approved products that might calm your overly anxious pet.

HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS
The holidays are often a time for parties or family gatherings for Christmas and New Year’s Eve.

With all this activity, pets might run out the door or try to escape your home if they feel overwhelmed or spooked. One of the best ways to ensure your lost pet gets back home to you during the holidays is getting them microchipped. If your pet is found and taken to a local shelter or veterinary clinic, it’ll be scanned for a microchip and your contact information will be immediately available.

Not microchipped? The Humane Society for Tacoma & Pierce County offers low-cost pet microchips to the public for just $25, which includes national registration. No appointment is necessary. The procedure takes only a minute and can be done anytime from 11:00 am – 6:00 pm, seven days a week.

Source: The Humane Society for Tacoma and Pierce County