While many people are decking their halls and homes this holiday season, we wanted to share some precautions and safety measures you should take to keep your pets safe during this year’s holiday celebrations.

While we’re excited for the most wonderful time of year, it’s important to understand what holiday festivities can be harmful for pets.

• Sweets & Treats: Keep holiday foods and candy away from pets, especially those containing chocolate, macadamia nuts, xylitol, grapes/raisins, garlic, onions, or other toxic foods, even turkey bones & skin!

• Electrical Decorations: Be sure to unplug electrical decorations before you leave the house - chewing on them could cause electrical shock.

• Holiday Decor: Cats love tinsel, ribbon, and string but those decorations can cause intestinal blockages if swallowed. In addition, salt dough ornaments and any treats hung on hooks are harmful for both cats and dogs if eaten.

• Holiday Plants: Be sure to keep common toxic holiday plants such as mistletoe, holly, poinsettias and lilies out of reach or consider using faux plants.

Keep an eye on your pets and allow breaks. Ensure your pets are secured while your home is busy with the hustle and bustle of guests coming and going. Make sure their ID tags are securely on and updated in case they do get out of an open door. Keep an eye on your pet and if you notice they are becoming overwhelmed allow them breaks in a calm/quiet area of your home.