As you prepare to decorate your home for the holiday season, remember to prioritize your dog’s safety. Many popular holiday decorations can pose risks to pets beyond the puppy years, including ingestion hazards and potential electric shocks. “Holiday plants are beautiful and add to the festive atmosphere, but pet owners should be cautious of their potential dangers,” warns American Kennel Club Chief Veterinary Officer Dr. Jerry Klein.
Are Poinsettias Dangerous for Dogs?
While poinsettias are mildly toxic to dogs, they’re rarely harmful in a severe way. The milky sap in poinsettia stems contains chemicals similar to those found in household detergents. If ingested in large quantities, a dog might show mild symptoms such as vomiting, drooling, or diarrhea. Skin irritation can also occur if the sap contacts the skin.
With minimal toxicity, poinsettias can be displayed with some caution. To reduce risks, keep plants and decorations out of reach and never leave your dog unsupervised around holiday items, plants, or potentially harmful foods. Though medical treatment is rarely needed, contact Healing Springs Animal Hospital if symptoms appear after ingestion.
Other Holiday Plants to Avoid
Several other holiday plants also present risks to dogs. “Amaryllis, balsam, pine, cedar, and holly are among the plants that can be harmful to pets and in some cases, even toxic if eaten,” says Dr. Klein. Additional plants to keep away from dogs include peace lilies, calla lilies, lily of the valley, autumn crocus, giant dracaena, and palm lilies. For households with cats, avoid all types of lilies, as they are highly toxic to felines and may be overlooked in floral arrangements.
If you think your dog has ingested something toxic, contact Healing Springs Animal Hospital or the Pet Poison Helpline at 855-764-7661 for assistance.
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