Holiday Décor Do’s and Don’ts in a Home with Pets

Christmas trees, holiday lights, candles, tinsel, poinsettias; the holidays are a magical time with decorations galore! Knowing what can harm your pets is important when deciding how to decorate your home for this wonderful time of year. There are certain decorations that should be avoided completely depending on the pet you have, so educate yourself and avoid having a giant holiday mishap this year!

Christmas trees are a staple in many homes during the holiday season. Our Christmas trees sit in stagnant water throughout the season so they do not go bad. This water is a breeding ground for bacteria and should not be ingested by your pet. Keep your pets away from this water as it could cause an upset tummy with diarrhea or nausea. Using a tree skirt to cover the water may help keep them away from the threat. Other plants like holly and mistletoe can cause gastrointestinal upset and cardiovascular problems in dogs and cats. Many varieties of lilies can cause acute kidney failure in cats if ingested. Instead, opt for artificial plants made from silk or plastic.

Tinsel is a very common decoration used during the holidays. This beautiful, sparkly, light weight decoration is especially enticing to our feline friends. While they may look cute playing with tinsel, it can be extremely dangerous. Playing can lead to chewing, which can then lead to swallowing. If your cat ingests tinsel it can cause a life threatening obstruction in the digestive tract. Avoid using tinsel if your share your home with felines.

Holiday decorations warm our homes and hearts. Knowing what can be potentially dangerous to our furry companions means a happy and healthy holiday season for all!

Vacationing with Your Pet? Great Tips to Make it Memorable!

Knowing more pet parents are choosing to bring their four legged furry family members along on vacation, more hotels and vacation destinations are welcoming pets. 

For proof of this trend in travel all you need to do is Google “traveling with pets” and see how many results pop up!

Speaking from personal experience often traveling with at least two of our three dogs, staying at hotels and vacation home rentals we have had many great experiences and some not so great experiences as well.

Often, when chain hotels offer pet friendly rooms, they are not generally the pristine rooms you see in the photos on the website. We generally find that we get tired rooms, though clean and neat, are ready for renovation. 

They also are generally on lower floors, which is a good thing for making late night and early morning potty walks easier, are not on a high floor and may not have that ocean view you were hoping for, even though you are paying the same or an even a higher room rate. 

We have had our best hotel experiences at the non chain fully pet friendly hotels, these hotels are as dedicated to making your pet’s stay as comfortable and accommodating for your pets as it is for you. It really pays to do your research and be prepared.

Here are some tips and resources to help prepare when bringing four legged family members along on vacation.

Traveling With Pets Tips: A How-To Guide On Vacations With Your Cat Or Dog

Is Your Pet Buckled Up?

Flying with Your Pet: Is it Ever a Good Idea?

Why Leave Fido at Home When You Can Take Him Along?

There is no doubt that sharing your vacation with your pets will make your trip even more memorable, as long as you do your research and prepare. 

All of us at Cherrybrook wish you safe and happy travels!

Claudia Loomis