Holiday Foods:  Never give your pet any of the following...

Rich, fatty foods such as gravies or grease.  These can cause stomach upset and even pancreatitis or gastroenteritis.

Chocolate, coffee or tea products.  All of these contain a component called "xanthines".  This is very dangerous to animals.  Since chocolate is so appealing to our pets it is especially a problem and one you must take special care in keeping out of your their reach.

Fish, meat, or poultry bones can cause problems if swallowed.  Instead, keep plenty of bones, (made for dog bones) around. Rawhides, Kong toys are a better alternative for your pet.

Onions are great in the holiday stuffing, but not in our dog. Onions destroy a dog's red blood cells, which can lead to anemia.

Holly, Mistletoe, Poinsettias, Hibiscus. Keep these out of your pet's reach.  Substituting these live plants with imitation is another way of keeping your pet safe from these hazards.

Gifts for your pet wrapped in ribbon or string should be avoided.  Remove before placing under the tree. Yarn, ribbon, and string can cause intestinal obstruction requiring surgery.

Batteries for toys should also be kept out of pet's reach as they can be toxic and cause intestinal obstruction requiring surgery.

Secure your tree to avoid your pet from knock it over.  It should be on a stable stand and secured to a wall or window.

Tinsel is shiny and attractive to our pets but when eaten, can cause blockages and may require surgery.  Avoid it all together if possible.

Electrical cords, if chewed, can cause burn to the mouth and electrical shock to death.  Unplug your tree when you leave and consider "chew stop" products available in any petstore.

Shiny, attractive ornaments should be placed high enough on the tree that your pet cannot reach them.  Place less shiny ornaments on the bottom.

Decorating with foods such as candy canes, gingerbread people, popcorn, cranberry garlands or raisins is nice but can cause problems for our pets.  Too much sugar is never healthy,  and popcorn, cranberries, and raisins  can cause obstruction if your pet swallows them.

If your pet tends to be fearful around strangers or crowds, have a quiet room prepared for these over stressed moments.  Even if your dog doesn't normally get fearful, holiday hustle and bustle can begin to over stimulate your pet.  Prepare the room with plenty of fresh water, food, and a comfortable bed so your pet can rest comfortably.