How to Keep Your Decor Dog-Friendly This Holiday Season
The holiday season in South West Las Vegas is a time for joy, celebration, and creating memories with loved ones—both human and furry! For dog owners, this is also the season to deck the halls and spread festive cheer. However, as much as we want our homes to look magical, it’s important to keep dog-friendly practices in mind while decorating. Dogs, especially curious ones, can get into trouble with holiday décor, so it’s essential to take precautions to ensure both your home and your pup stay safe this holiday season. Here are some helpful tips on how to safely decorate your home with your dog around.
Choose Dog-Friendly Decorations
The first step in decorating safely is to select **dog-friendly** decorations. While twinkling lights, ornaments, and tinsel are staples of holiday décor, they can be dangerous if your dog tries to chew on them. For example, ornaments made of glass or ceramic can easily break and cause injury. Opt for shatterproof ornaments made of plastic or fabric instead. You might also consider skipping the tinsel altogether, as it can be ingested and lead to serious digestive issues.
Additionally, avoid decorations with small parts that could be choking hazards, such as buttons or small figurines. If you plan to use a tree topper or decorative items at dog-level, be sure to secure them properly to prevent your dog from knocking them down or pulling on them.
Secure Your Christmas Tree
A Christmas tree is often the focal point of holiday decorations, but it can be tempting for a dog to explore and even chew on tree branches or the base. To keep your dog safe, make sure the tree is securely anchored to prevent it from toppling over. You can use a tree stand with a strong base and check that it’s sturdy enough to withstand any curious nudges from your dog.
If your dog is particularly interested in the tree, consider placing a protective barrier or gate around it to keep them from getting too close. Additionally, avoid placing low-hanging ornaments or garlands on the lower branches, as these are the most accessible to your dog.
Keep Electrical Cords and Lights Out of Reach
Holiday lights can create a festive atmosphere, but they also present potential hazards for dogs. Curious pups might chew on the electrical cords, which can lead to electric shocks or burns. To prevent this, keep electrical cords out of your dog’s reach by tucking them behind furniture or securing them with cord protectors. If you have outdoor lights, ensure that the extension cords are properly protected from any dog interactions.
You can also use battery-operated or LED candles instead of traditional wax candles, as they are much safer for homes with pets. These flameless candles provide the same warm glow without the risk of fire.
Be Cautious with Holiday Plants
Certain holiday plants can be toxic to dogs if ingested. Popular plants such as poinsettias, mistletoe, and holly are known to cause nausea, vomiting, and even more serious symptoms if eaten. If you plan to bring any of these plants into your South West Las Vegas home, place them in areas that your dog can’t access, such as high shelves or hanging planters.
For safer alternatives, consider decorating with artificial plants or opting for pet-safe greenery, such as non-toxic ferns, spider plants, or Christmas cactus. Always do your research to ensure that the plants you choose won’t harm your dog if they come into contact with them.
Be Mindful of Holiday Food and Treats
The holidays are known for indulgent meals and treats, but many of these foods can be dangerous for dogs. Chocolates, grapes, raisins, and some baked goods are toxic to dogs, so it’s important to keep these foods out of their reach. Make sure that leftovers are securely stored and that your dog doesn’t have access to any holiday food that could harm them.
If you plan to give your dog holiday treats, choose **dog-friendly** options. There are plenty of **dog-friendly** holiday cookies and chews available that your dog will love. Always remember to treat your dog in moderation and avoid overfeeding, especially during the holiday season.
Create a Dog-Friendly space
With all the excitement of the holiday season, your dog may get overwhelmed by the noise, people, and festive activity. To keep your dog comfortable and calm, set up a quiet area in your home where they can retreat if they need a break. This space should include their bed, water, and favorite toys. It’s essential that your dog feels safe and secure during the holidays, so creating a peaceful environment can help them relax amidst the festivities.
Decorating your home for the holidays with a dog around can be both fun and safe if you take a few precautions. By selecting pet-friendly decorations, securing your tree and electrical cords, keeping hazardous plants and foods out of reach, and providing your dog with a quiet space, you can ensure that both your home and your pup remain safe and happy this holiday season. If you’re looking for additional training or behavior tips for the holiday season, Sit Means Sit in South West Las Vegas is here to help. We offer expert training to help your dog stay well-behaved, even during the most festive time of the year!