Deck the Hall – But Watch The Paws!

With Christmas just around the corner, many pet parents eagerly anticipate celebrating with family, friends, and their beloved pets. The holiday season, filled with joy and warmth, also brings unique dangers for our curious pets who may find irresistible allure in festive decorations. Pet Insurance Australia highlights essential tips for keeping pets safe from Christmas decoration mishaps, emphasising the risks of certain objects and offering advice to keep the season merry and accident-free.

"It's nearly that time of year again when we dust off the Christmas decorations and get a little festive," Nadia Crighton from Pet Insurance Australia says. "However, it is important to understand that some pets will fall victim to our festivities, leaving pet owners with immense stress and worry during such a wonderful time of year."

Understanding the Risks: Why Pet Parents Need to Stay Vigilant

Christmas decorations, while beautiful, can pose significant hazards to pets—especially curious cats and scavenging dogs. 

"Dogs are notorious for eating things they shouldn't, and during the holiday season, the risk only increases," Crighton says. "The sight of shiny tinsel, baubles, and twinkling lights can tempt pets into chewing or swallowing dangerous items, potentially leading to costly vet visits or serious health complications."

Data from last year reveals that dogs have ingested items ranging from chocolate and grapes to unusual objects like human medications, shoes, and corn cobs. On the other hand, cats are known to play with small, dangly objects, which can result in accidental ingestion or entanglement. And it's not just about the dangers to your pet's health;

"According to the 2024 PetSure Health Monitor, the average treatment cost for foreign body and toxin ingestions, without surgery, can reach a staggering $1,064. With surgery, it was reported a pet owner faced a daunting highest treatment cost of around $41,671," Crighton says. "In a time when the cost of living affects most households, these additional expenses during the holiday season could be incredibly stressful. Pet Insurance Australia urges pet parents to take preventive measures to avoid these potential costs."

Veterinarians frequently see cases where pets ingest toxins or foreign bodies. While the specific items ingested aren't always detailed in claim submissions, the resulting medical treatments and costs are. These speak volumes about the importance of keeping Christmas decorations out of the reach of curious pets.

 Which Dog Breeds Are Most at Risk?

The top five dog breeds most at risk of claiming for ingestion of foreign bodies or toxins include

• Miniature Dachshunds
• Groodles (Golden Doodles)
• Golden Retrievers
• Cocker Spaniels
• Labradors.

Top Tips to Prevent Christmas Mishaps with Pets

1. Choose Pet-Friendly Decorations

"Opt for shatterproof ornaments and avoid tinsel or items with small parts that could be swallowed. Cats are particularly attracted to shiny tinsel, which can cause dangerous blockages if ingested. Ribbons, bells, and small decorations can also pose a choking hazard to pets."

2. Mind the Christmas Tree

"Make sure your tree is securely anchored to prevent tipping and avoid placing breakable ornaments within reach of paws. Pine needles, both real and artificial, can be toxic to pets and may cause internal injury if ingested. Consider using a pet-proof tree skirt to keep pets from drinking tree water, which may contain harmful preservatives."

3. Keep Toxic Holiday Treats Out of Reach

"Holiday favourites like chocolate, grapes, sultanas, raisins, onions, and garlic are toxic to dogs. Avoid leaving these foods unattended on tables or counters where pets can easily access them. We recommend giving your pet safe toys to chew on and storing dangerous foods securely."

4. Dog-Proof Your Home

"Secure rubbish bins, keep hazardous items out of reach, and install pet-friendly gates to limit pets' access to decorated areas. Ensuring your home is dog-proofed can reduce the likelihood of dangerous items being chewed or swallowed."

5. Provide Environmental Enrichment

"Pets often explore or chew out of boredom. Providing plenty of entertainment and mental stimulation, like puzzle toys, can help keep them occupied and reduce the likelihood of unwanted chewing or swallowing."

6. Teach Basic Commands

"Training commands like "drop" or "leave it" can be lifesaving. These simple commands help pet parents intervene when pets go for forbidden objects and prevent ingesting dangerous items."

"These breeds, known for their curious and sometimes ravenous natures, are particularly vulnerable during the holidays when temptation is high, and attention can be divided by the hustle and bustle of family gatherings."

Anecdotal Observations from Pet Experts

While vets may not always know precisely what a pet has ingested, common incidents involve conditions caused by holiday decorations. Cats, for instance, love batting at baubles and dangling ribbons, while dogs are quick to scavenge anything they can get their mouths on. 

"As gatherings grow and holiday excitement builds, pet parents must stay vigilant to ensure their furry friends stay safe."

Pet Insurance Australia reminds pet parents that the key to a happy and stress-free holiday season is prevention. By creating a safe, pet-friendly holiday environment, we can ensure that both our furry friends and our families can enjoy the festivities without worry.

END

*PetSure Health Monitor 2024

Pet Insurance Australia policies entered into for the first time prior to 8 May 2023 and subsequent renewals of those policies are issued by The Hollard Insurance Company Pty Ltd ABN 78 090 584 473, AFSL 241436, arranged and administered by PetSure (Australia) Pty Ltd ABN 95 075 949 923, AFSL 420183 (PetSure) and promoted and distributed by PetSure's Authorised Representative (AR) Pet Insurance Australia Pty Ltd ABN 85 113 507 850, AR 326233 (PIA). Pet Insurance Australia policies entered into for the first time on or after 8 May 2023 and subsequent renewals of those policies are issued by PetSure and promoted and distributed by PetSure's AR, PIA. Any advice provided is general only and does not take into account your individual objectives, financial situation or needs. Please consider the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) to ensure this product meets your needs before purchasing, or choosing to continue with the product. PDS and Target Market Determination available at petinsuranceaustralia.com.au.