ATTENTION, COMPANION ANIMAL CARETAKERS!   DECK THE HALLS -- BUT DO IT SAFELY, PLEASE

HOLIDAY HEALTH TIPS TO HELP MAKE THE SEASON BRIGHT FOR PETS
For many of us, 'tis the season to decorate our homes with live Christmas trees and holiday greenery. But did you know that some of these yuletide traditions can be hazardous to your pet's health?

• Lovely lilies are commonly used in holiday floral arrangements, but many varieties--including tiger, Asian, Japanese Show, Stargazer and the Casa Blanca--can cause kidney failure in cats.
• Bag the boughs of holly and live mistletoe. Yes, they add a nice touch to your holiday decor, but holly can cause vomiting, nausea, diarrhea and lethargy if ingested by your pet. And should he eat mistletoe, he could suffer gastrointestinal upset and cardiovascular problems. Instead, opt for just-as-pretty artificial plants made from silk or plastic.
• If your dog or cat ingests pine tree needles, she can suffer an upset stomach and oral pain.
• Look before you light. Lit candles produce fumes that can be harmful to birds if inhaled. And don't forget, your pet's wagging tail can easily knock over a burning candle. Liquid potpourri is also dangerous to pets, who could ingest it from decorative bowls and simmering pots.
  
• Oh, Christmas tree! Their branches definitely delight pets, who've been known to chew on them--and whatever decorations may be hanging from them. Place small, breakable ornaments high up, and keep tinsel and garland out of your pet's reach, as these can get caught in his throat. And make sure that pine needles, which can be toxic, don't get eaten.
  
• Keep batteries--loose and in packages--away from pets. They contain corrosives that can cause ulceration in your animal companion's mouth, tongue and gastrointestinal tract if bitten or swallowed.
  
• Shy animals can get stressed with the hustle and bustle of holiday guests, so make sure there's a quiet room to which your pets can retreat.
  
• Don't allow your pet access to holiday spreads, especially if you've got a chow hound. Alcoholic beverages, chocolate, coffee, onions, fatty foods, yeast dough and macadamia nuts can all cause problems.

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