How do you plan to celebrate the holidays? It goes without saying that seasonal cheer is needed more than ever in 2020. Whether you’ve upgraded your holiday decor to compensate for cancelled travel, or you’ve decided on a subdued celebration, you can still include your pets in the festivities.
Part of the fun of having a pet at home is surprising them with a new toy, and the family gift exchange adds to the excitement. It’s important to keep your pet’s safety in mind when preparing a gift for them to open. Sharp edges on ribbons and decorative bows secured with staples can cause injury if your pet gets a hold of them. Rather than wrap their presents, consider making up a special pet stocking filled with treats. Hanging the stocking out of reach can help deter your pet from trying to open it too early.
Give your pet the best of both worlds, a stocking that doubles as a toy! The SnugARooz Hide & Squeak Holiday Stocking makes a fun gift.
As for the presents under the tree -- not to mention the tree itself -- you’ll need to do some serious pet-proofing, especially if you’ve opted for a live tree this year. Not only are unsecured trees susceptible to collapse, a curious pet could drink from the water dish or swallow a pine needle and become seriously ill. A few precautions to take to keep your tree, live or fake, upright and untouched can include:
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Anchoring the tree in a corner to help keep it sturdy
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Setting up a dog-proof fence around the tree
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Lining the tree with a tinfoil skirt to discourage pets
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Spraying the base of the tree with a pet deterrent spray
Be sure also to tape down any electrical cords attached to the tree, and decorate with non-breakable ornaments secured with good ties, so they won’t fall from the branches.
The X Mat Pet Training Aid helps create a pet-free zone. Use one close to holiday decor to help prevent accidents.
Lastly, consider the potential for noise during the holidays, and how it may affect your pets. Motion activated displays that dance or play loud music may bring out skittish behavior in your pets. Use good judgement when putting out such decorations.
For ideas on last-minute pet gifts for the holidays, visit any of Care-A-Lot Pet Supply’s four locations in Moyock and the Hampton Roads area. We carry an extensive selection of pet treats, toys, and other accessories they will enjoy any time of the year.