Top 10 Tips For Keeping Pets Safe During Holidays: RivCo

RIVERSIDE COUNTY, CA — Pets are family members, and so they’re usually part of our winter holiday festivities. But the Riverside County Department of Animal Services is reminding folks that four-legged friends can be sickened or injured by our favorite celebratory trimmings, so the agency shared this list of Top 10 safety tips to keep pets safe.

1. Delicious dangers. Chocolate, fatty, sweet and spicy foods as well as alcohol and turkey or chicken bones can all be dangerous to pets.
2. Watch out for wires. Wires can deliver potentially lethal electric shocks and batteries, if punctured, can cause burns to the mouth and throat of your pet.
3. Mistletoe, Lilies and Poinsettias, oh no! They can cause gastrointestinal upset and cardiovascular problems if ingested.
4. Rockin’ around the Christmas tree. Christmas trees poses potential threats to our furry companions. Secure your tree tightly so there is no chance it can tip over. Make sure the tree water is covered and/or inaccessible to curious pets. Lastly, ingested tinsel can cause severe problems.
5. Be cautious of candles. Curious paws and happy wagging tails could knock them over, potentially burning your pet or starting a fire.
6. Loud noises. Music, fireworks, celebratory poppers or noisemakers can scare our companions. Create a safe space for your pet to retreat to get some quiet time. Keep them at home and away from celebrations.
7. Talkin’ trash. Make sure you take out the trash or secure the lids on any garbage cans that may have food, broken decorations or any other holiday hazards inside.
8. Broken snow globes. Snow globes are made with ethylene glycol, the same chemical used in antifreeze, which is highly toxic to all pets.
9. Accessorize your pet. Ensure your animal is wearing a collar, dog license, and identification tag so if he gets lost, he can be returned to you. Dog licenses can usually be purchased through shelter websites.
10. Keep your pets indoors. Confirm gates and doors stay closed and your pet is inside at all times.

If your pet gets lost, visit www.rcdas.org to see pictures of animals at the shelter and reports of found animals looking to get back home. Residents in Southwest Riverside County can also visit Animal Friends of the Valleys here.

If you suspect your pet has been exposed to any poisonous substances, contact your veterinarian or call Animal Poison Control Center at 888-426-4435 immediately.