The holidays are in full swing – full of festivities, friends, family and food! All of these things are fun and exciting for humans, but your little furry friends might not be as excited and understanding about the commotion.
Presents
Pets as presents – don’t do it. If you want to give a friend, spouse or child a pet for Christmas, take them with you to the
Bradshaw Animal Shelter as part of the gifting experience. Let them be an active participant to ensure the right match is made for both parties through comprehensive adoption counseling. Gifted pets are one of the top returns local shelters take after the holidays.
Decorations
Decorations pose a real threat to your pets – from tinsel to glass ornaments to candles/lights. Never leave your pet unattended with dangerous decorations or a lit Christmas tree. If possible, close off the Christmas tree area from your pets when you aren’t in the room.
Read more information on the danger tinsel and other decorations pose to your pet.
Food
The holidays are full of delicious food, sweets and drinks for humans, but many of these treats are toxic for your pet. Although many foods are perfectly safe to feed your pet after your holiday meal, others pose a danger. Consult this
handy list of safe and unsafe pet foods. Make sure your guests are aware of the house rules when it comes to feeding your pets.
Guests, parties and loud noises
Is your pet a social butterfly or a quiet bookworm? Be considerate of their preference as you invite people into your home, play music and more. Some pets love the additional attention – but others are fearful of all the noise. Designate a back bedroom with a bed, food and water for your shy pets.
Giving Back
The Bradshaw Animal Shelter, owned and operated by the County of Sacramento, houses nearly 14,000 animals every year. They provide food, shelter, medical care, vaccinations, microchips and spay/neuter services to these precious animals. If you are looking for a worthwhile cause to donate to before the end of the tax season, consider
Bradshaw Animal Shelter! Want to shop for the animals? Visit the shelter
wish list at Amazon.com.
The shelter also accepts financial sponsorships of pet adoptions!
Looking for pet themed gifts for friends and family? Visit the Critter Outfitter – a pet retail store located inside the shelter. All proceeds go back to helping the animals and it is stocked with great pet supplies and gifts!
However you celebrate during the holiday season, be mindful of your pets and their safety and have a happy holiday season!
