Both dogs and cats are prone to liking things that glitter. They also love to investigate new things in their homes. These are two reasons that the Christmas tree is so intriguing to them. This is also why we all should take a few safety measures when putting up our Christmas tree, no matter if it is a real or imitation one, according to the website, PetPlace. If you have already put up your Christmas tree, you can still tweak it a bit to make some of these safety adjustments.
Place The Tree In An Area Where It Won't Be Knocked Over
Yes, you want the tree to be placed in an area where it can be seen. Yet, you don't want the tree to be easily knocked onto your beloved doggie or kitty. Remember those glittering bulbs and the tree itself will be tempting for both to climb. Anyway you can use silicone molds for resin instead to protect your tree.
The ideal place for the tree is in a corner against a wall or in a front of a window.
You may also want to secure the tree. This can be done by done by placing the tree in a corner and securing it on two sides. You may also want to secure it from its top to your celling. Clear fishing line can be used to help hide the lines.
Skip The Tinsel
Both cats and dogs can choke on tinsel. However, cats are the most attracted to the glittery tinsel. Tinsel can cause a blockage in the animal's intestine which can require surgery, if it is swallowed. It can even cause death. Therefore, if you have a pet in the house, you may want to avoid using tinsel. You can use velvet ribbons in place of it. You can also purchase plastic icicles.
Skip The Hooks
Instead of using traditional hooks to put your ornaments onto the tree, take a few minutes and make your own string loop hangers. Simply loop and tie a piece of string onto each ornament.
Purchase Safe Ornaments
Yes, glass ornaments are pretty. Yet, they are not safe around inquisitive cats or dogs. Glass ornaments can be easily broken, which can cause cuts. A dog may also decide to play with a glass ornament as he would a ball and bite into it, which could cause severe trauma to the dog's mouth, including a large amount of bleeding. Safer ornaments would include plastic or wooden ornaments.
Wrapped Presents
Dogs, especially puppies, may want to investigate the pretty presents under the tree to see what is inside them. They do not understand that they are meant to stay unwrapped until a certain day. Therefore, it may be best to not store presents under the tree.
If you like the look of wrapped gifts under the tree, you could wrap some fake presents and place them under the tree. Then if puppy does unwrap them, you will only have a mess to clean. If you do decide to go this route, don't place any ribbons or string onto the presents. These can pose as choking hazard.
Sweep The Area Around Your Tree
The area around your tree should be swept regularly. This will ensure that pine needles are picked up and not eaten. Real pine needles can cause vomiting and gas irritation in dogs and cats.
If you follow the above tips, your pet can have a healthier Christmas. This in turn can also mean that you will have a happier one.
Source: https://www.lrisy.com