New York loves a party! And this time of the year seems to be a constant party in some ways – with all of the holiday decorations, the food, and constant coming & going of friends and family. In the midst of it all though, as pet owners, it’s our responsibility to keep our pets safe.

According to Holiday Dangers to Pets, an article provided by Pawprints and Purrs Inc., each year, thousands of pets are seriously injured and/or become ill during the holiday season.

Animals are drawn to music, twinkling lights, decorations and food, which may be hazardous to their health.

“We tend to enjoy lots of rich, fatty foods during the holidays,” said Army Capt. Marion A. Alston, officer in charge, Camp Pendleton Veterinary Treatment Facility.

Avoid feeding pets human food. There are many holiday goodies that can cause vomiting, diarrhea and pancreatitis, he said.

“Food with bone fragments is especially dangerous,” Alston said. “Bones that have sharp points can perforate the animal’s stomach or intestines and cause potentially fatal illness. Even without sharp edges, bones can become lodged in the digestive tract and require surgical removal”

Along with keeping holidays treats out of reach of the furry family member, pet owners should heed caution to several holiday plants that can also be harmful to animals if nibbled or eaten.

Some of these plants include holly, mistletoe, lilies and pine, said Alston.

While decking the halls with boughs of holly and other holiday décor, there are some things to keep in mind that could help create a safe environment for the family companion.

Some simple guidelines as outlines by Americanhumane.org include placing candles on high shelves, putting tinsel, ribbon and garland out of reach and anchoring Christmas Trees to the ceiling with a string to prevent it from falling over.

Read the rest of Keeping pets safe for the holidays.