Christmas décor brings warmth and personality to homes across Surrey during the winter season. Trees, lights, ornaments, and wrapped gifts help create a festive atmosphere, but they can also introduce unfamiliar objects that attract curious pets. Dogs and cats explore their surroundings through scent and touch, which may increase the risk of accidental injury during the holidays.
Creating a pet-safe Christmas setup allows families to enjoy decorations while supporting their pets’ comfort and safety.
Why Holiday Decorations Can Be Risky
Holiday decorations often include shiny surfaces, dangling items, and unfamiliar textures. These features may encourage pets to chew, paw, or play with décor. Sudden changes in the home environment can also lead to confusion or overstimulation.
Veterinarians commonly advise evaluating holiday decorations from a pet’s point of view before final placement.
Christmas Tree Placement and Stability
A Christmas tree can be a focal point for pets, particularly cats that enjoy climbing or dogs that investigate new scents. Ensuring the tree is stable and placed away from busy walkways may help reduce the risk of tipping.
Using a sturdy stand and securing the tree when possible is often recommended. For natural trees, covering the water base may prevent pets from drinking from it.
Ornaments and Decorative Accessories
Glass ornaments, hooks, tinsel, and small decorations may pose choking or injury risks if chewed or swallowed. Even soft or plastic items can cause digestive concerns if ingested.
Veterinarians often suggest placing fragile ornaments higher on the tree and avoiding loose decorations at ground level in homes with pets.
Lights, Cords, and Candles
Blinking lights and hanging cords may attract pets that enjoy chewing or batting objects. Chewed cords may present electrical hazards.
Securing cords behind furniture and unplugging lights when unattended may help reduce these risks. Candles should be placed on stable, elevated surfaces away from pets.
Gifts, Wrapping Paper, and Ribbons
Wrapped gifts may smell appealing to pets due to food scents or packaging materials. Ribbons, bows, and wrapping paper can become dangerous if swallowed.
Cleaning up wrapping materials promptly after gift opening is often recommended to reduce the risk of ingestion.
Creating Calm Spaces for Pets
The holiday season can be busy and noisy. Setting up a quiet area where pets can retreat may help them feel secure. This space can include familiar bedding, toys, and water, away from decorations and guest activity.
At Campbell Animal Hospital in Surrey, veterinarians frequently discuss home safety and seasonal adjustments with pet owners during winter visits. These conversations help families plan festive setups that support pet well-being.
Conclusion
A pet-safe Christmas setup balances celebration with thoughtful planning. By identifying potential hazards and making small adjustments, Surrey households can enjoy festive décor while supporting a safe and comfortable environment for their pets.
Disclaimer:
This content is provided for general educational purposes only and is not a substitute for veterinary advice. For questions about holiday home safety or pet well-being, consult Campbell Animal Hospital, Surrey, BC V3S 3X1, Canada. Phone: 102-275-5192.