Holiday Safety Tips from OCAR

Monday, 15 December 2025 07:14

The holiday season can be an exciting time of the year, even for your pet.

OXFORD - The holiday season has arrived and the Oxford County Animal Rescue has some tips for pet owners out there.

Foster Coordinator Anna Holmes says you should keep a close eye on your furry friend.

"If you've got get togethers happening with people coming and going, be aware of where your pet is so they don't slip out the door. You don't want to be hunting for your family pet on Christmas day."

Poinsettias and Christmas Lillies can be poisonous for them. Chocolate is also poisonous for dogs, and they can easily smell a box that's wrapped under the Christmas tree.

Speaking of Christmas trees, your cat might think your tree is a fun toy to play with. It's a good idea to anchor it to the wall, so your cat doesn't climb inside and knock it over. You should also be wary of some of the decorations on your tree, because your cat or dog might try to eat some of the sparkly tinsel or ribbon. If you have a real tree, you should make sure your pet doesn't try to drink the water as well.

Holmes says it's also a bad idea to feed your pet your scraps from Christmas dinner.

"Your turkey carcass, the skin and the other things you don't want to eat, your pet should not be eating them either. You don't want to take that trip down to Brantford to the emergency vet because they have a foreign body obstruction."

If you're planning on taking your pet for a walk so you can check out the beautiful Christmas lights, make sure you wipe the salt from the sidewalk off their paws when they come inside. You also should not leave your pet outside for too long because if its too cold for you, its too cold for your pet.

Lastly for those looking to become pet owners in the future, it's important to note that a pet is a 20-year commitment, not a Christmas present. The Oxford County Animal Rescue has an application process for its adoptions, and it will not be changing over the holiday season.