Wow! It’s the first week of December. Everyone is starting to put up their decorations both inside & out. Keeping your pets safe at this time of year takes extra special work on your part. Especially if this is their first big holiday. But keep in mind…..most dogs exhibit puppy behavior until they are 2 years old. And while we all are busy, it only takes a few minutes to make sure your little friend is safe and remains that way. Here are some interesting facts that everyone should be aware of. We all know that holly, mistletoe, poinsettias & even lilies are poisonous if ingested. But did you also know that those beautiful snow globes contain antifreeze, which is poisonous to all pets. It only takes a very small amount to kill a cat or dog. And those pine needles from wreaths and trees can puncture holes in a pet’s intestine if ingested. Holiday tree water may contain fertilizers & harbor dangerous bacteria. Avoid toxic decorations. Snow sprays & snow flock can cause several reactions & Styrofoam poses a choking threat. Here’s one that different. Replace your smoke detector batteries often. Not only for your own safety but when batteries run low they throw off an alarm or alert sounds at very high frequencies that can be both painful and disturbing to your pet’s ears. This can be very stressful and traumatic, especially if they are home alone. If your pet eats broken plastic, staples, glass slivers or any small object, call your vet right away. In the meantime, give your pet supplemental fiber such as canned pumpkin, about ½ cup, or whole wheat bread, or even some Metamucil. This will help bulk up the stool so the dog can pass the foreign items a little easier and safer. Of course, always have your animal emergency phone numbers with your other emergency numbers. ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center’s 24 hr emergency hotline is 1-888-4-ANIHELP. I believe there is a small charge. You can also look it up on the internet. Bookmark those valuable websites. Remember that Prevention is the best medicine.