O Christmas Tree, O Toxic Tree, How Lovely are thy Branches.

You can have it all! A Christmas tree and a safe and healthy pet. Here’s how:

When should I set up my tree?

The best time to set up your tree is when the pets are asleep or not around. That way there isn’t an opportunity for them to get into stuff when you’re not looking.

What kind of tree should I buy?  

No live Christmas trees! I know bummer…But at least you can feel good about saving a few lives in the process.

An artificial tree does not have toxic consumable needles. Also, there is no stagnant bacteria breeding ground (water). If Christmas tree water is consumed, the pet can end up with nausea and diarrhea or even worse… poisoned from the fertilizer!

Purchase a pre-lit artificial tree with no exposed wires that can deliver a lethal electric shock.

I know what you’re thinking, “I’ll get a battery operated one”. Nope! A punctured battery can burn the mouth and esophagus.

Where in my home should I put my tree?

The location of the tree is key. Put it on a stable elevated 3-foot surface and make sure it is secured as to not fall over.

What kind of ornaments should I use?

No styrofoam, glass, or breakable plastic.

Definitely leave off the food such as nuts, candy, and popcorn. It is just unreasonable to hang food on a tree and expect your pet to leave it alone because you told him to. He’s still an animal, remember? Oh, and even if the treat is in a wrapper, in a package, or in a bag, your dog can still smell the candy and like myself, once the package is opened, he can’t stop at one.

Did you know that ornaments sculped from a salt-based dough can cause sever electrolyte imbalance and can lead to seizures or death?

What about tinsel?

Nope! Because it can lead to obstructed digestive tracts, vomiting, dehydration, or surgery $$$.

What should I use to hang the ornaments?

 Do not use hooks or long ribbons. Imagine swallowing one of those metal hooks.

Instead use skinny zip ties (available at Walmart: 200 count for $5).

How should I decorate the tree?

 Leave the bottom 2-3 feet decoration free. That way the temptation isn’t in the pet’s face. It’s like putting an Oreo in front of a child and telling them that if they don’t touch it, they will get 2 oreos. Dogs, like young children, live in the moment and have no concept of the future. If it looks like delicious fun, they will enjoy right now.  

How do I prevent my pets from getting into the gifts?

If you are going to have gifts under the tree, (of course you are unless you were on Santa’s naughty list) block access to them and the tree by surrounding it with baby gates. This will also prevent your pets from “marking” the gifts or tree. Nothing says “Merry Christmas” like a sour smelling gift.

And then, around the gates, put some double stick tape or contact paper to dissuade the cat from approaching the tree. Cats hate sticky things on their foot pads.

Around the tape, you can put motion sensor noise makers like “Scat Mats.”

So pretty much you are going to booby trap your tree.

What’s that smell?

Is your tree going to smell like pine this year? Heck no! It’s going to have a very unique smell of turmeric and lemonade! This concoction will deter cats (and most people) from going near it.

Another option is to hang those really classy lemon scented car air fresheners that are shaped like pine trees on your Christmas tree as ornaments.

When is it safe to leave the animals alone with the tree?

Never leave a pet unsupervised in a room with a Christmas tree! Ever heard the saying, when the cat’s away the mice will play? Well, given the opportunity to wreak havoc on your tree, your pets will JUMP at the chance.

As a rule of thumb: when in doubt, go without. It is about being mindful when putting up your Christmas tree and think about possible consequences. Ask yourself: “is doing this worth the possibility of a sick or injured pet or a hefty vet bill?” I don’t know about you, but I’d rather spend my cash on Christmas gifts for my animal companions. All joking aside, my goal for providing you with this list is to help you and your furry friends have a Safe Christmas and a Healthy New Year!