Introduction:
Christmas in July is a great excuse to bring out the holiday decorations and get a head start on the season. If you have pets, however, it’s essential to keep their safety in mind when decorating your home. One popular decoration that can add a festive touch to your home is a Christmas garland. In this article, we’ll review some tips for decorating with Christmas garlands and keeping your pets safe.
Decorating with Garland:
Garland can be a great way to add greenery and sparkle to your home. When choosing garland, opt for pet-friendly options such as artificial Christmas garland made from materials that won’t harm your pets if ingested. Real garland can be dangerous to pets if the needles are eaten or if the plant is toxic.
Once you’ve chosen your garland, be mindful of where you place it. Keep it out of reach of pets, particularly cats, who may be tempted to play with or chew on it. Consider securing the garland to a high shelf or mantle using command hooks or other securely mounted hooks.
Keeping Your Pets Safe:
While Christmas garland can add a festive touch to your home, keeping your pets safe is important. Here are a few tips for ensuring your pets stay healthy and happy during the holiday season:
- Keep toxic plants out of reach: Common holiday plants like poinsettias, holly, and mistletoe can be harmful to pets if ingested. Keep these plants out of reach, or opt for fake versions instead.
- Avoid tinsel: As pretty as tinsel may be, it can be dangerous if ingested by pets. If you must have tinsel, keep it out of reach and consider opting for a pet-friendly version made from paper or fabric.
- Don’t forget the tree: If you have a Christmas tree, secure it to prevent it from falling over onto pets. Keep ornaments and other decorations out of reach of pets, particularly those that may be tempting to chew on.
Visiting the Vet:
Even with the best precautions, accidents can happen. If you suspect that your pet has ingested something they shouldn’t or if they’re showing signs of illness, it’s essential to seek veterinary care right away. Signs of disease in pets can include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and loss of appetite.
In addition to seeking care when your pet is ill, it’s essential to keep up with routine veterinary visits. Regular check-ups can help catch health issues early and ensure your pet is up-to-date on vaccinations and preventative care.
Conclusion:
Christmas in July is a fun time to get a head start on holiday decorating, but it’s essential to keep your pets’ safety in mind. By choosing pet-friendly decorations like garlands and keeping toxic plants and other hazards out of reach, you can ensure your pets stay healthy and happy during the holiday season. And if you run into any problems, don’t hesitate to seek veterinary care immediately.