Things You'll Need:
- Durable ornaments
- Brand-new pet toys
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Step 1
Hang it high. Whatever decor you choose, it will be safest for your pet if the pet cannot reach it. Keep ornaments away from the bottoms of trees and near shelving units or other things animals can easily get to.
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Step 2
Steer clear of edibles. Candy canes, scented candles or potpourri and holiday greenery, such as poinsettias, should not be left where pets can get a whiff and want a taste of it. Even if the particular edible is not toxic, it’s never fun cleaning pet puke off the holiday rugs.
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Step 3
Watch for stuff that pets can choke on. Small pieces, detachable parts and flimsy hooks are part of a recipe for disaster if mixed with pets. Keep solid ornaments, made of thick plastic, wood or metal, that don’t have a lot of little parts that can come off and look like a little pet treat. Use the adage that if a pet can fit something in its mouth, the pet most likely will.
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Step 4
Lift up lights. Electrical cords are another hazard for sharp-toothed animals. Not only can it ruin your lighting design, but it could prove fatal if the pet ends up electrocuted. Tack cords out of reach and use outlets that are up high, if possible. If you must use a lower outlet, put something in front of it, like several stacks of books or boxes, so your pet does not have easy access.
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Step 5
Round up ribbons and other shiny goodies. Thin ribbons attached to gifts, dangling tinsel and other shiny, hanging or flimsy stuff is an open invitation to your pet. Keep the ribbons boring, thick and preferably of velvet, which is harder to chew than the plastic cheap stuff. Don’t use any of the dangling tinsel since all it does is fall off and end up in your pet’s tummy.
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Step 6
Give pets their own sets of “decorations.” With all the fun stuff hanging around, it’s only natural your pet will want to check out all the new and fun-looking stuff. When you haul out the decor, also haul out a set of holiday toys especially for your pet. Anytime Fido goes for something hanging from the tree, quickly hand him one of his own special toys to show him that’s what he should be playing with.
