If you suspect your pet is sick, call your vet immediately. Dogs and cats like to chew on the limbs, and the fir tree oils can be irritating to the mouth tissue, causing such symptoms as drooling and vomiting. Elevate the Christmas tree. Avoid purchasing any kind of holiday plant that might be harmful to your dog – this includes lilies, mistletoe, holly, and poinsettias. You may be able to find more information about this and similar content at piano.io, How to turn your Christmas tree into a bird feeder. If you don’t mind having puppies turn your tree into a canine playground, make sure it is assault proof. Christmas trees can be toxic Watch out for fallen Christmas tree needles which “are not digestible and can be mildly toxic depending upon your dog’s size and how much she ingests,” Hartz, the pet care company, said. Choose your tree wisely. Christmas trees are also generally safe for pets. Tree safety tips. Take a look at these top tips to ensure you choose a Christmas tree that will suit your dog and your home. However, oils from fir trees can be mildly toxic and cause slight stomach problems and mouth irritations in … It also means that if they do end up knocking it over whilst they familiarise themselves with it, you won’t have to spend hours picking up all your decorations and putting them all back on the branches. Pet’s paws and tails can be lethal to delicate Christmas decorations – but broken ornaments can be dangerous for cats and dogs too. Chews or puzzle toys stuffed with smelly treats can be placed around the base of the tree. We earn a commission for products purchased through some links in this article. But Christmas trees can be potentially dangerous for pets, such as dogs and cats. Another option is Sticky Paws which is a double-sided tape product. A phenomenon know as Christmas Tree Syndrome affects dogs as well as people and causes an increase in allergy symptoms due to the various molds growing on the tree. Trees end up toppled, presents and decorations damaged, and sometimes pets are hurt. The water you use … Christmas trees themselves are not poisonous to dogs. It may sound like a lot of bah humbug, but keeping your dog safe during the holiday … It’s important to note that neither live nor artificial Christmas trees are entirely safe. Type of tree: Most types of Christmas trees are low toxicity but may cause a mild tummy upset (vomiting and/or diarrhoea) if chewed. Some dogs actually seem to like the flavor. Christmas Tree Fascination Tips. There are several options, and some work for certain pets and not for others. Christmas trees. Most cats dislike the sensation of tinfoil on their claws too, so they’ll be much less likely to attempt to climb it. by Irene Hislop. Real or fake tree. In addition to making sure that your Christmas tree is dog-proof, there are some other simple things to keep in mind. … “We’ve heard all sorts of horror stories about pets eating parts of branches or decorations, getting spiny needles stuck in their paws, or pulling trees down and hurting themselves in the process.". Tree needles also can obstruct or puncture her gastrointestinal tract. Reaching the same height as a normal Christmas tree, these ‘parasol’ designs have an extra-long stem that keeps the bottom branches safe from cheery dogs (or even small children) and should dissuade cats from attempting to reach the top. Block off the “tree room” with a baby gate. However wonderful they are to look at, Christmas trees come with a number of potential hazards for dogs and cats. Get rid of the lights and any materials that could be swallowed. Oh, Christmas trees. Ingested tinsel, tree needles, hooks from ornaments and other holiday décor can kill a pet. … That offers something for Junior Dog to smell and chew—safely. Sticky Paws is available in larger sheets as well as strips that you can apply directly to carpets beneath the tree or wherever needed. Place tin foil or a can filled with a few marbles on the tree’s bottom branches. Another thing to worry about when it comes to real Christmas trees is the tree water, which is usually mixed with pesticides and other chemicals, making it poisonous to dogs. Another problem that can arise from eating the tree is the risk of poisoning, given that it secretes a sticky toxic substance.That's why Animal Wised is reminding you of first aid for dog poisoning. Next, keep puppies at bay and a safe distance from danger by making the area surrounding the tree unattractive or impassable. Not only can your pets get tangled up in the wires, but if they like to chew there’s also the risk of electrical shock. Make sure your pets are safe this holiday season. I promise you, the tree will still be just as pretty raised off the ground! A great way to keep cats in particular away from your festive centrepiece is to use orange peel or citrus spray on or around the street. For many dogs, a Christmas tree is often perceived as a toy. Jumbo-size (too big to swallow) jingle bells offer movement and sound when hung from ribbon on a branch. Garlands, ornaments, strings or hooks, icicles and fake spray-on snow can cause problems. They may want to chew the branches, hide under the tree and for sure be distracted by the pretty lights that shine. Even older dogs might enjoy the scent and put the needles in their mouth. If you’re using real pine garlands, be careful where you place them so your dog doesn’t end up covered in sap. Are Christmas Trees Poisonous to Dogs? So to avoid any casualties, stick to artificial trees. Home and garden experts at GardenBuildingsDirect.co.uk have revealed nine things pet-owners must do to make sure their tree is safe, including creating an alarm to alert them to impending trouble. Place your tree inside of an enclosure like those meant to be used as dog exercise pens. Like a number of different holiday plants (like Poinsettia and Holly), Christmas trees can be toxic to dog. Hide them in a safe place and bring them down on Christmas morning or late Christmas Eve, so you don’t have to present loved ones with gifts that have been clawed at or drooled on. The Spruce Pets uses cookies to provide you with a great user experience. Edible strings of popcorn may look festive, but it tempts pups to munch and eating the string can kill your pet. By using The Spruce Pets, you accept our, The 13 Best Christmas Gifts for Your Dog in 2021, The 6 Best Advent Calendars for Pets in 2021, How to Help Puppies After Electrical Shock With First Aid, How and When to Induce Vomiting in a Puppy, The 9 Best Dog Subscription Boxes of 2021, What to Do When Your Puppy Swallows a Foreign Object. Real Christmas Trees Can Be Dangerous, Too. Country Christmas decorating and recipe ideas, Pet-proof portal Christmas trees are trending, The floral Christmas tree trend: How to decorate your Christmas tree with flowers, There are 3 types of real Christmas trees and they are perfect for different types of home, Common mistake that makes Christmas trees wilt, Brits buying imported Xmas trees accidentally. Winter dangers. When you decide to “deck the halls” for the holidays, thinking about Christmas tree puppy safety is critical. The American Christmas Tree Association—a non-profit that educates people about Christmas trees both real and fake—says that PVC is “not harmful” or … Dip cotton balls in the ointment and stick in the lower branches of your tree. Puppies turn everything into a toy or game. (iStock) A live tree can be especially hazardous. Read on for our tips for dog-proofing your Christmas tree. Decorate with the pet in mind and you’ll keep the fur-kids in the family happy and safe. The tree base may look like a drinking dish. Real Christmas trees have sharp needles which could easily get stuck in your pet’s paws. However, ... Never leave your dog unattended with the Christmas tree and consider consulting a dog trainer to assist in teaching your dog the tree is off limits. For example, cats will often be drawn to the flashing lights, glittery tinsel and sparkly baubles, whilst rambunctious dogs are prone to bumping them over – or even using them as toilets. There's a lot you need to know to make things go smoothly with your new friend. Christmas trees aren’t a hazard to your cats and dogs by being poisonous, but the RSPCA advise that your pets only be allowed around the tree when supervised. Also, if your pet is chewing on the branches, there is a good chance he is also swallowing some of the needles. Set smaller trees on table or counter top out of dog reach. They come with their hazards, so best to double check. Top tip: Loop some fishing line around the top of the tree and tie it to a small screw in the ceiling. Before you start decorating your Christmas tree, simply assemble it and leave it up a few days. Here are Petplan’s Christmas safety tips to ensure you avoid any unwelcome mishaps when it comes to your pet… Making your Christmas tree safe for your pets. Christmas trees, whether real or artificial, can be a hazard for homes with pets during the holiday season. Christmas Trees. Real Christmas trees can be extremely dangerous to your pet. The Queen's chefs share gingerbread house recipe, How to cut Christmas cake without it drying out, Genius hack shows perfect way to wrap Xmas gifts, 13 best board games to play this Christmas, 10 support organisations for Christmas anxiety, Country Living, Part of the Hearst UK Fashion & Beauty Network. Aluminum foil is a great deterrent for tiny pups and cats since they dislike walking on that odd-feeling and sounding surface. Depending on how mischievous your cat or dog is, you might want to leave the bottom third of the tree completely bare. During the Christmas period watch out for: Christmas tree decorations (tinsel, baubles, electric lights and salt dough ornaments) Batteries, silica gel and wrapping paper; Small toys; Find out more about Christmas decorations and toys that can be dangerous to dogs. You could even offer the puppies a small tree of their own. Take a look at these top tips to ensure you choose a Christmas tree that will suit your dog and your home. This content is created and maintained by a third party, and imported onto this page to help users provide their email addresses. Create a Puppy Holiday Tree If you don’t mind having puppies turn your tree into a canine playground, make sure it is assault proof. Water: Tree water can poison your dog. Some dogs don’t even care if the tree is real or just an artificial (fake) tree. Country Living participates in various affiliate marketing programs, which means we may get paid commissions on editorially chosen products purchased through our links to retailer sites. A good quality, heavy stand will anchor your tree to the ground better. As discussed above, if your dog eats the Christmas tree it runs the risk of puncturing its intestines with one of the fir tree's long, sharp leaves. Many artificial trees are made from PVC, a known carcinogen. Decorate the tree with safe materials like nontoxic dried flowers or paper ornaments. Attach guy-wires or twine to prevent the tree from falling, and make sure the lower ornaments are pet safe. Your dog finds the Christmas tree fascinating and just … While live Christmas trees are highly admired by people, and dogs and cats alike – that’s not always good news. Some Christmas decorations and presents can be harmful to your dog. These hard plastic mats with the uncomfortable nubby surface can be placed in “pet-free zones” such as around the Christmas tree, plants, furniture, or front door to keep pups at a respectful distance. You could even offer the puppies a small tree of their own. No matter what type of tree you choose, make sure it is stable enough so your dog can’t accidentally knock it over.… They smell divine and look beautiful, but they also come with some hazards. Christmas can present a range of hidden dangers for dogs Christmas pudding and mince pies: Grapes and dried vine fruits (currants, sultanas, raisins) Grapes and their dried products (currants, sultanas and raisins) are toxic to dogs. They can also cause cuts in their mouths. Amy is an award-winning Certified Animal Behavior Consultant and author of 27 pet care books. To keep your Christmas gifts safe and protect your dog from chewing or eating something they shouldn’t, simply don’t put presents under your tree. With these safeguards in place, if your dog does become a little too curious about the Christmas tree, he should be safe from harm. If that tree water has additives like aspirin or other preservatives in it, puppies can get sick. Brainteaser: Can you help find Santa's hat? Trees that are used for Christmas trees include Blue Spruce, Balsam Fir, Douglas Fir and White Pine. So, if you must put lights on your tree, leave the bottom few branches bare and make sure you secure the cords leading to and from the tree. Vicks Vapo Rub (menthol smell) may work as a pet repellent. Dog Safe Christmas Tree Alternatives Arty Christmas Trees ~ In a minimalist pad with white walls, a decal Christmas tree makes for a fantastic festive impact. The traditional holiday item can brighten a home with sparkling lights, dazzling ornaments and a plethora of presents below. #10 Christmas trees. You have no items in your basket Go to checkout. So Christmas trees are a concern with how safe they are for an avid chewer, as well as how I can make them “dog-proof”. Candy canes and chocolate decorations are just asking to be devoured by your four-legged friends – but these sweet treats can be extremely dangerous to pets. This will help your pet get used to having it in the house, and they’ll be more likely to leave it alone once it’s covered in lights and baubles. Fallen needles can make a tempting chew toy for puppies. Here’s how. If your dog or cat starts nosing around the tree, you’ll hear it in time to intervene. PET DOORS FEEDERS ANIMO BLOG SUPPORT COMMUNITY Sign-in Login ; Sure Petcare App You have no items in your basket Go to checkout. On the one hand, live trees contain oils that can be irritating to mouth tissues if chewed upon, and if swallowed the needles can cause obstruct or puncture the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. 24 December 2019. The area under the tree creates a great puppy hideout. Anything that fits in the puppy’s mouth is a potential hazard. Soft puppy toys with squeakers make great decorations for lower tree branches and won’t be destroyed during puppy play. However, pine needles can cause damage to eyes if pets should run into the tree, such as a corneal laceration. It happens. Try the X-Mat Pet Training Mat from Mammoth Pet Products. Silver foil also offers a festive holiday look. With the holiday season in full swing, read on for a look at how Christmas trees and other seasonal items may prove to be a problem for your pet. Preservatives, pesticides, fertilizers and other agents, such as aspirin, are commonly added to tree water to keep the tree fresh. Young pups during teething want to gnaw everything, and they may swallow inedible objects without meaning to. You can also make something similar yourself using the clear plastic carpet runner/protectors placed nub-side up on forbidden zones. The oils produced by some real Christmas trees are also mildly toxic if consumed, causing minor irritation to a pet’s mouth and stomach. This will keep it from tipping over if your naughty pet gives it a bump. Water your real tree with plain water or choose an artificial one. Bright, shiny lights are hard to resist for cats and dogs, but they can be really dangerous. What tips and tricks do you use to keep curious pups away from the Christmas tree? Real trees bring the outdoor inside. The soft "tacky mats" available from home products stores designed to keep throw rugs from sliding around work well to keep some pets at bay because they dislike walking on sticky surfaces. Because they’re sharp, needles can puncture your dog’s GI tract. Because pine needles are not digestible, eating them can hurt your dog. Treated water can be harmful to a thirsty dog -so use a covered tree water dish to be safe. The result can be a holiday that’s anything but merry. Take a look at these safe (but fantastically festive) Christmas tree alternatives, which are the best of both worlds because they’re stunning and dog-friendly. Tree Water. “They look fantastic, but breakable ornaments and electric lights on Christmas trees pose serious hazards to cats and dogs," says their spokesperson. As a writer, editor, and consultant, Dr. Coates is part of The Spruce Pets' veterinary review board. The sheer fact that it is a tree is more than enough to seriously peak their interests. For health-related questions, always consult your veterinarian, as they have examined your pet, know the pet's health history, and can make the best recommendations for your pet. You can also use the pet's sense of smell to keep her away from the tree. Create an ‘alarm’ Place tin foil or a can filled with a few marbles on the tree’s bottom … You can hide them with a tree skirt or use cord clips to keep them off the floor and out of reach. The branches and needles could irritate your pet’s muzzle and there is a high risk that the chemicals used to preserve live Christmas trees could poison your dog or cat. It’s widely known that cats hate the smell of oranges or other citrus fruits, so this should cause them to steer clear. To protect your pet from any potential accidents with broken glass or the like, put fragile ornaments towards the top of the tree, or switch to plastic decorations altogether. Tree ornaments that sparkle, move or make noises lure puppies to grab and chew; garland offers a great game of tug-o’-war; and the twinkling lights draw them to investigate or even chew, which can lead to electrical shocks.