MARY JO NAGY | Pets Keep Fluffy safe for the holidays

The holidays are upon us. Here is my list of yearly do's and don'ts for pet care during the Christmas season. However, most of these tips would help your pets year-round, too.
UNever, never give an animal as a gift. If a family member is thinking about getting a pet, then give him or her a gift certificate from your local animal shelter instead. Never surprise someone with an animal. Pets are a lifelong commitment. They should not be treated like returnable items the day after.
UIf your family is thinking about getting a pet, bring it home a few weeks before Christmas to get acquainted with everyone. A word to the wise: Divorced spouses should never surprise the kids with a new puppy or kitty without first making arrangements with the custodial spouse.
UIf you do not have a pet, donate food, treats, toys, cages or carriers to your local animal shelter. One of the greatest gifts that you can give to a shelter is subsidizing a spay or neuter for a cat or dog. Also, make a New Year's resolution to volunteer at your local animal shelter. Nothing beats a wagging tail or soft purring to make your day.
UAngels for Animals believes all pets should be kept indoors and treated as family members. However, for the animals that live outside please make sure they have proper shelter from the cold. This would include a warm doghouse with straw. Your pets should have fresh, unfrozen water at all times. Provide them with a toy, appropriate bones and some exercise every day. In addition, try to give them some love and attention. You will see the rewards are great.
UDon't overdo the food scraps. Excessive amounts of table food given to your animal can cause stomach upset or diarrhea. Chocolate can be toxic to dogs and cats and should never be given to them no matter how much they beg. The holiday turkey bones can splinter and pieces of bones can lodge in your pet's throat and cause choking. Instead of leftovers, give your pet a chew toy or a treat made for animals. Always keep your veterinarian's phone number handy in the event of an emergency.
UThose shiny decorations and Christmas tree are hazards. Make sure your Christmas tree is steady and secure so it can't be knocked over. If you have anything other than plain water in the tree stand, cover it so your pet cannot drink from it. Tinsel, garland, angel hair or shiny bulbs attract a pet's attention and can cause choking if swallowed. Vacuum sharp pine needles, broken ornaments and hooks off the floor. Try to keep ornaments high enough on the tree to be out of reach of your pet's mouth and tail (happily wagging). Also, electrical lights and candles can be chewed and can cause burns or electrocution.
UPresents are great for everyone. Like children, animals will go looking for gifts. Don't leave ribbons and string lying around, and put your special gift away so it can't be chewed either. You can find your pet exciting toys and treats at your local pet store. How about giving your pet a new chew rope, bone, catnip or ball? Some pet stores even offer photos with Santa Claus.
UPlants like mistletoe, holly and poinsettias should be kept away from your pet because they are poisonous. You may try spraying a product called "Bitter Apple" on your plants to reduce or eliminate chewing.
UGuests and parties are part of the holidays, but post a sign on both sides of your door so guests are careful to close it securely. A pet can easily slip out and not be missed in the holiday confusion, or you might find yourself searching the street after dark. You may consider keeping your pet in a quiet room during parties because noise and commotion may frighten some animals. If your pets can handle festivities then let them enjoy them.
UBecause holiday travel is so hectic -- now waiting lines and baggage checks are longer than ever -- do not bring your pet to the airport. Temperatures are usually too cold in cargo and the delays are too frequent. I would not risk having my pet die because of freezing weather or treated like luggage. Find a good kennel, pet-sitting service or a friend to stay in your home with your animal.
The holidays can be safe and enjoyable for the entire family, including the family pet, with a little planning and care. Have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year from all the volunteers at Angels for Animals.
XMary Jo Nagy is a volunteer with Angels for Animals.