Holiday Pet Safety is not something that a lot of people stop and think about, but if you have pets you need to give a little thought to making the holiday season a safe and stress free time for your pets.

He looks smart, but he needs help staying out of trouble. (Photo: pettravelcenter.com)

With a little planning you can keep from having to make a late night trip to the emergency vet or spend time searching for your pet that got out (you know it will be going to be raining and cold).

1.  Avoid Christmas trees disasters Anchor the tree so it can’t tip over, place non-breakable ornaments near the bottom of the tree, don’t use tinsel as pets will sometimes eat it and this can cause serious intestinal problems. Cover the trees water as it may contain chemicals that help a tree last longer and keep pine needles picked up as they can cause problems if eaten.

2.  Make sure Holiday plants are non- toxic for pets (check HSUS.org website for a complete listing of plants that may be dangerous to pets).

3. Holiday treats are not pet treats. Candy, cookies, peppermints and especially chocolate can trigger life-threatening illnesses in dogs and upset tummies in cats.

4.  No Bones! Turkey and chicken bones can easily break and cause choking. Stick with dog/cat treats specifically designed for pets.

5.  Holiday Parties and family gatherings can be a stressful time for pets and visitors may unknowingly let you pets out. A quiet room with the pet’s toys/blankets, food, water and litter box for cats provides a safe place for your pets to stay while the house is full of guests.

A cute and cuddly pet might seem like the perfect gift choice but many times these holiday presents end up at local animal shelters. At our Pet Adoption Center we help potential adopters to find the right match for their household. A pet is a real commitment of time for training and money to provide for food and veterinary care. If someone you know is planning on getting a pet then you can offer to pay the animal shelter’s adoption fee or provide a gift card to purchase food and supplies.

You will never be lonely again once we are together.

Adoptable Best Friend/Pet of the Week

“I’m Nomad the gentle giant. I am a Great Pyrenees and life has been tough for me until I came to the Norfolk SPCA. Currently I “only” weigh 85 lbs and once I fill out I will be about 120 lbs. I love to run but will walk by your side too. I would prefer a home where I get all the attention so no other dogs or young children, please. My friends at the Norfolk SPCA say I have the most beautiful eyes and coat.  I do like showing off a bit and have been told that I look like Falcor, the luck dragon….  No autographs, please”

For more information on adopting Nomad or any other local friends, contact the SPCA. 757.622.3319 or visit their website here.