Plenty of dangers crop up during the holiday season—don’t let your festivities be ruined by a canine emergency! Use these tips from Westside Animal Hospital, your Savannah, GA veterinarian’s office, to keep your dog safe and sound during the holidays.

Tree Hazards

Don’t let your canine companion have access to tree ornaments or tinsel, as you don’t want him ingesting these items and causing intestinal obstruction. There’s also the possibility that your pooch could pull the tree over entirely while attempting to reach decorations. Do your best to restrict your dog’s access to the area underneath your holiday tree as well. Not only are there lots of pine needles here, which could irritate a pet’s stomach if swallowed, but your dog could attempt to drink the stagnant water in the tree base. This water may house harmful bacteria, fertilizer, or other contaminants.

Holiday Foods

Garlic, onions, grapes, raisins, chocolate, candy, certain nuts, salty foods, fatty items, caffeinated foods and beverages, alcohol—there are plenty of common holiday foods that aren’t safe for your dog to consume! Keep Fido out of the kitchen during meal preparation time and away from the dinner table while you and your family are eating. Make sure that all guests know not to give your dog any table scraps without your permission.

Holiday Plants

Poinsettias aren’t likely to cause serious harm if your dog ingests them, and will most likely only result in minor mouth or stomach irritation. With that being said, it’s not worth taking a chance! Keep your dog away from all poinsettia plants, and beware of mistletoe and holly, which also have poisonous properties for pets.

Gift Wrapping Tips

It’s safest to keep your dog elsewhere if you’re holding a marathon gift-wrapping session. Many of our more curious canine companions may attempt to eat wrapping paper, twine, tape, ribbons, and bows.

Stress and Anxiety

If guests are coming to your home this holiday season, it can be quite a stressful time for your dog. If your pooch doesn’t take kindly to the hustle and bustle, try setting up a safe zone in a quiet back room, outfitted with a pet bed and a few soft blankets. Lead your pup here when they become anxious. Want even more great holiday safety tips for dogs? Contact Westside Animal Hospital, a Savannah, GA vet, to speak with a veterinary professional. We are here to help!