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Christmas Archives - Fath Properties Blog Tue, 17 Dec 2024 15:23:00 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=7.0.1 Christmas Morning Breakfast https://www.fathproperties.com/blog/2024/12/17/christmas-morning-breakfast/ https://www.fathproperties.com/blog/2024/12/17/christmas-morning-breakfast/#respond Tue, 17 Dec 2024 15:23:00 +0000 https://www.fathproperties.com/blog/2024/12/17/christmas-morning-breakfast/ I’m half Italian. My dad’s father was born in Calabria, Italy. He arrived as a boy in the United States in 1900 via Ellis Island. He was traveling with his father, his pregnant mother, and three siblings. The family settled in a duplex in a small town in New Jersey. My great-grandfather and great-grandmother lived…

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I’m half Italian. My dad’s father was born in Calabria, Italy. He arrived as a boy in the United States in 1900 via Ellis Island. He was traveling with his father, his pregnant mother, and three siblings. The family settled in a duplex in a small town in New Jersey. My great-grandfather and great-grandmother lived on one side of the duplex, and when my grandfather married, he and his wife raised three children on the other side. My dad and his two sisters were actually born in the house. My father’s sister lived her entire life in the house (she lived to see 100) and her daughter now lives in the home. So you could say our family is steeped in tradition.

The Feast of the Seven Fishes was/is our Christmas Eve tradition. Although the venue changed over the years, the tradition remained. In recent years (like the last two decades), Christmas morning breakfast was added as a tradition with responsibility for the morning’s feast in my hands. Over the years, I experimented with a variety of breakfast foods; everything from frittatas made with leftovers from the night before to labor-intensive giant ravioli stuffed with ricotta and egg yolk. But one of our favorite Christmas morning breakfasts is also one of the easiest and most delicious. This is a dish you can make the night before and pop in the oven in the morning so you have plenty of time to languish with coffee and family while opening presents.

Christmas Morning Strata

8-10 servings

Takes about a half hour to prep, then an hour to bake.

Ingredients

  • 6 large eggs
  • 2 ½ cups whole milk
  • 2 cups of sliced scallions (green onions)
  • ½ cup whipping cream
  • ½ cup grated Romano cheese (can substitute Parmesan)
  • 2 tbsp. fresh oregano or 2 tsp. dried, crumbled
  • ½ tsp. salt
  • Ground black pepper, ideally freshly ground
  • 1 pound Italian sausages (hot or mild) with casings removed
  • 1 large red bell pepper, halved, seeded, sliced into ½” wide strips
  • 1 one-pound rustic loaf of French or Italian bread cut into ½” thick slices
  • 2 cups (loosely packed) grated Fontina cheese (or other cheese that melts nicely)
  • Butter for coating the casserole dish

Preparation

Whisk the first seven ingredients together in a large bowl. Add ground black pepper to taste. Set aside.

In a large non-stick skillet, place sausage on one side and red pepper on the other. Saute over high heat, breaking up the sausage with a fork until it is cooked through and the peppers are brown in spots; about 7 minutes.

Arrange half the bread slices in a buttered 13” x  9” x  2” casserole. Pour half of the egg mixture on top. Sprinkle with half the cheese and half of the sausage/red pepper mixture. Repeat layering. Let it stand for 20 minutes if you're baking it shortly, or you can cover and refrigerate overnight. Press down on the bread at least once to ensure everything is submerged.

When ready to bake, preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Bake uncovered for about an hour until the strada is puffed and brown. Cool slightly. Eat!

It is very nice served with fresh fruit or a simple green salad. Let’s not forget the mimosas, bloody Mary’s, screwdrivers, and/or salty dogs. And coffee.

I hope you try this strata and that it can become a tradition for your family, too—even if you’re not Italian. Happy Holidays, Fath friends!

 

 

 

 

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Pup-tastic Holiday Happenings https://www.fathproperties.com/blog/2024/11/14/puptastic-holiday-hapenings/ https://www.fathproperties.com/blog/2024/11/14/puptastic-holiday-hapenings/#respond Thu, 14 Nov 2024 14:14:00 +0000 https://www.fathproperties.com/blog/2024/11/14/pup-tastic-holiday-hapenings/   Paws-itively Paw-some Christmas Pet Events Near You! Get your furry friend/s in on the holiday festivities this year! We’ve rounded up a few paws-itively pet-friendly things you and your fluffy friend can do together in and around our Cincinnati, Dayton, and Dallas locations. Please be sure your best buddy says “woof!” to Santa Paws…

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Paws-itively Paw-some Christmas Pet Events Near You!

Get your furry friend/s in on the holiday festivities this year! We’ve rounded up a few paws-itively pet-friendly things you and your fluffy friend can do together in and around our Cincinnati, Dayton, and Dallas locations. Please be sure your best buddy says “woof!” to Santa Paws for us!

OAKLEY, OHIO

Red Dog’s Santa Paws at MadTree

  • Saturday, December 7, 11 AM – 5 PM
  • 3301 Madison Rd.

Get an adorable digital photo of your pet with Santa for a $15 suggested donation to @leagueforanimalwelfare ! (Cash or Card). This year there is a new backdrop and set up for a fresh 2024 holiday photo!! Come join the holiday cheer with Red Dog at:@madtreebrewing
Pet Nights with Santa

Photos by:Alyssa Jeanine Photography
Santa played by: Lee of Mudpups’ Dog Training & Behavioral Services.

Paw it Forward!
They will collect dog & cat toy donations for the shelter pets to make their holiday extra special! Please bring your donations to the event. Fill up your dog’s stocking by shopping with Local Pet Businesses at Santa Paws!

Photos may take up to one week to edit before link is shared to Red Dog’s Facebook page. Please follow Red Dog to watch for the photo link.

Please note: Santa will need to take small breaks. Ther elves will work as fast as PAWsible to keep the line moving, so each dog has plenty of time with Santa, to get an adorable keepsake to cherish forever! During Santa’s breaks, have a beer, enjoy food, and shop with the small businesses on-site!

Event is free to attend, and all friendly, leashed dogs are welcome!

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ERLANGER, KENTUCKY

Santa Paws Photos

  • Paws Canine Training
  • Saturday, November 16, 4-7:30 PM
  • Sunday, November 17, 10 AM – 1:30-PM
  • 2844 Crescent Springs Pike #B, Erlanger, KY, US, 41018

Mark your calendars for Santa Paws Photos! This dog-friendly event will be held each day from (times vary based on appointment) to (times vary based on appointment). Sponsored by Allies Walkabout and For Paws Canine Obedience Training. Admission is a $35 donation and benefits Second Shot.

Get a photo with your best friend in plenty of time for your holiday card or to give as a gift at this fun event! There will also be music, snacks, campfires, beverages and more.

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WEST CHESTER, OHIO

Bass Pro Shops Santa’s Wonderland

  • Now – December 24
  • RSVPs required
  • 5951 Bass Pro Dr, West Chester, OH, US, 45069

Mark your calendars for Bass Pro Shops Santa’s Wonderland! This dog-friendly event will be held from (open times vary by day) to (close times vary by day; visit website for details) on Nov 3, 2024, to Dec 24, 2024, at Bass Pro Shops in West Chester, OH, US. Admission is free; reservations are recommended to see Santa. Experience the magic of Christmas with Fido! Visitors receive a free 4×6" photo with Santa. Other photo packages are available for purchase. Reservations are highly recommended and can go quickly.

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KENWOOD, OHIO

Pet Photos with Santa

  • November 11 – December 10, 4-7 PM Mondays & Tuesdays
  • 4 PM – 7 PM
  • Kenwood Towne Center Lower Level Center Court

Need a new holiday tradition or just want to get into the Christmas spirit with your pets? Don’t miss pet photos with Santa! Break out the ugly Christmas sweaters and dress your furry friends up for an un-fur-gettable photo shoot.

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MT. ADAMS, OHIO

Reindog Parade

Voted the “Best Family Event” in Cincinnati!

  • Saturday, December 14. Registration begins at 12:30; the parade starts at 2:00 PM
  • The Monastery, Mt. Adams. The parade will be led by Santa himself!

Dog Registration: 12:30 pm – 1:45 pm at 946 Pavilion (the parking lot between El Barril and The Hilltop)

There is no fee to register. Parade viewing starts at 2:00 and lasts until the last Holiday Dog finishes the route!

This unique parade, sponsored by The Mt. Adams Business Guild, has been a Mt. Adams tradition for over 20 years. The procession through the streets of Mt. Adams will be led by Santa himself, flanked by our Grand Marshall, Thom Brennaman

Every year we have a group of celebrity and sponsor judges that help us choose the best costumed dogs for prizes. Costume categories: Small Dogs (under 25 lbs), Large Dogs (26 lbs and over), Dog/Owner Look-A-Like, and Group (3 or more dogs). Be creative – we’re looking for fun, unique, and festive costumes for each category!

Great Raffle Prizes!  Private Wine Tasting for 10 from Revel OTR, plus many more local gift cards Food and vendors will be available before the parade, so come on down and join the party ahead of time!

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ROCKWALL, TEXAS

Paint Your Pet! Christmas Edition!

  • Thursday, December 12, 6-9 PM
  • 513 E I-30 Rockwall

This is an advanced, custom class. Limited seating is available, and photos of your pet must be submitted prior to the event. Please send photographs of the pet you’re planning to paint back to the email address: [email protected]

Due to the difficult nature of this painting, the age is set at 15 & Up.
If you have an extraordinary young artist in their teens, they may do fine with this painting, and would be allowed to attend at your discretion.

Adults over 21 are welcome to BYOB.

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Downtown Dallas Christmas Vendor Market

  • Sunday, December 8, Noon – 4 PM CST
  • Harwood Park 408 S Harwood St, Dallas, TX 75201

Bring Fido to browse the 25+ local vendors at this seasonal event! There will be specialty cocktails, restaurants on site, permanent jewelry, handcrafted items, lawn games and more! Leashed pups are welcome.

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GARLAND, TX

Bass Pro Shops Santa’s Wonderland

  • Now – December 24
  • RSVPs required
  • 5001 Bass Pro Dr, Garland, TX, US, 75043

Mark your calendars for Bass Pro Shops Santa’s Wonderland! This dog friendly event will be held from (open times vary by day) to (close times vary by day; visit website for details) on Nov 3, 2024 to Dec 24, 2024 at Bass Pro Shops in Garland, TX. Admission is free; reservations are recommended to see Santa. Experience the magic of Christmas with Fido! Visitors receive a free 4×6" photo with Santa. Other photo packages are available for purchase. Reservations are highly recommended and can go quickly. Hours vary by store.

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DALLAS, TX

Pet Photos with Santa

  • Saturday, December 7
  • 9 -11 AM
  • 8484 Walnut Hill Ln, Dallas, TX, US, 75231

ring Fido to get his picture taken with jolly old Saint Nick! There'll also be vendors, hot cocoa, treats, raffle items and more. Mark your calendars for Pet Photos with Santa! This dog friendly event will be held from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM on December 7, 2024 at CHEW Animal Clinic in Dallas, TX, US. Sponsored by Haute Dog Pet Photography. Admission is a $10 donation.

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DAYTON, OHIO

Cabela's Santa's Wonderland

  • Daily Now – December 24
  • 5500 Cornerstone N Blvd, Centerville, OH, US, 45440
  • RSVPs required

Experience the magic of the holidays with Fido! Visitors receive a free 4×6 photo with Santa. Other photo packages are available for purchase. Reservations are highly recommended and can go quickly. Hours vary by store.

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MIDDLETOWN, OHIO

Fall Crafts and Drafts Fest

  • Sunday, November 17
  • 10:30 AM – 2:00 PM
  • 1330 Manchester Ave, Middletown, OH, US, 45042

Guests and their furry friends are invited to enjoy a beer and delicious food while checking out a variety of vendors! You'll find a diverse range of artisanal items, jewelry, handcrafted fall and winter items, sweets, and more.

WASHINGTON TOWNSHIP, OHIO

Friends of SICSA Holiday Bazaar

  • Friday, December 6, Noon – 7:00 PM
  •  Saturday, December 7, 9 AM – 4 PM
  • SICSA 8172 Washington Church Rd. Washington Township, OH 45458

Come shop pet beds, blankets, and toys; handmade gifts for you and pet lovers, and much more! Make lasting memories by getting a picture with Santa (Saturday 9am to 3pm). Cost: $10 pictures – All proceeds help our animals.

Happy Ho-Ho-Holidays to you and your pup from your friends at Fath Properties.

 

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12 WAYS TO TURN YOUR APARTMENT INTO A CHRISTMAS WONDERLAND https://www.fathproperties.com/blog/2023/12/08/12-ways-to-turn-your-apartment-into-a-christmas-wonderland/ Fri, 08 Dec 2023 06:58:00 +0000 https://www.fathproperties.com/blog/2023/12/08/12-ways-to-turn-your-apartment-into-a-christmas-wonderland/ Is it beginning to look a lot like Christmas at your place, or do you think you just don’t have the room to decorate? No matter the size of your home, there are always ways to bring the festive look and feel of the season to your place without breaking the bank or requiring a…

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Is it beginning to look a lot like Christmas at your place, or do you think you just don’t have the room to decorate? No matter the size of your home, there are always ways to bring the festive look and feel of the season to your place without breaking the bank or requiring a plethora of pre-holiday storage space. In fact, we have 12 ideas for ways you can turn your apartment into a Christmas wonderland!


1. Size Doesn’t Matter

Finding room for a tree in a small space or a room that doesn’t have a big empty corner can be tough. Rather than skip the tree altogether, how about a small tree that can fit nicely in a corner or a narrow tree that can squeeze in between furnishings? Small trees can make big statements with the right ornaments and plenty of lights. Even a tabletop tree can add a holiday flair to your home. If you’re worried about not having enough storage for an artificial tree and ornaments, you can always get a real tree and decorate it with layers of fake snow and pine cones which can be tossed after the holidays. This kind of tree embraces a natural woodland look and can be quite pretty.

2. Be Surfa-ficial

In other [real] words, take advantage of all the flat surfaces throughout your home. Your coffee table is the center of your living room space and can become the centerpiece for your holiday decor. Add a themed garland, large Christmas ornaments, or even a basket full of greens and pine cones to the table to create a cozy central arrangement. Add a few flameless candles to set the mood. Carry the décor to your kitchen and bathroom counters, dresser or nightstand surfaces, your TV stand – the possibilities are almost endless.

3. Be Subtle

Subtle touches of holiday cheer throughout your home can tie in a holiday theme that makes your dwelling feel comfy and cozy. A small winter scape on a window ledge, holiday-themed kitchen accessories, or a seasonal garland or wreath over your bathroom mirror can invigorate the holiday spirit in your place.

4. Be A Wallflower

Hanging displays or floating shelves are a great way to optimize vertical space. Your wall space can become a replacement for a mantel, a place to hang stockings or provide a fun way to display Christmas cards. For parents, floating shelves make a great elf-on-the-shelf display. Make use of wall space by spreading out the shelves and laying garland or twinkle lights to create a winter atmosphere. Use holiday-themed tape and free paint swatches from the hardware store along with squares of wrapping paper to create a flat yet colorful Christmas tree on the wall.

5. Window Dressing

Your windows are the eyes of your home. Make use of the windows by constructing winterscapes on the windowsills, or hanging a wreath in the window. Hang large snowflakes in the window for a Christmas look that will last through the winter. Wrap lights around your curtain rods or drape them over your blinds to create a bright and airy vibe.

6. Shelves For Elves

Utilize the top of bookshelves or cabinets to lay out decor like ornaments and even tinsel. If you do not have a fireplace, you can use a bookshelf in its place to hang stockings or display Christmas cards.

7. Swap It

Swap out kitchen towels, sheets, throw blankets, and bathroom towels with holiday-themed ones to add a maximized look to your small space. Festive linens are a cute touch for any guest entering your home. The same applies to dishes and tableware!

8. Burn Baby Burn

Festive decor is not only about what you can see but also about the smell. Lean into the scents of the holidays by burning candles that smell like some of your favorite Christmas memories. Candles can also generate a relaxing ambiance, which is a great way to take a break from all the hustle and bustle of the season. Just be sure to protect your surfaces from dripping wax, and never leave lit candles unattended.

9. Door Dressing

A perfect way to welcome your guests into your holiday home is with a seasonal wreath or doormat right at the entrance, even if it’s just to your apartment. Your guests will know they’ve stepped into Santa’s workshop with cute festive pieces. Select a wreath that welcomes the spirit of the season and a doormat that displays welcoming cheer.

10. Terrific Tablescapes

The holidays are a great time for get-togethers and parties, greet your guests with a bar or kitchen table that screams Christmas. Select a table runner that showcases snowy scenes, grab a candle or two that smell like pine trees, and don’t forget to add some snacks!

11. Cozy Cocoa

Revamp your bar cart by creating a hot chocolate or cider station. Swap out shakers for marshmallows and chocolate spoons. Grab holiday mugs that tout the Christmas spirit. You can still keep traditional items in your bar cart to create a hot toddy station for those wishing to indulge.

12. Greens Galore

Add fresh greens in swags, garlands, or containers to bring the outdoors in, bringing lovely scents – especially if you can find cedar branches – into your home. Sprigs of greens are an easy and expensive way to create special scenes throughout your apartment. Kick them up a notch by adding pinecones, frosted fruits and berries, an ornament or two, and finish it off with a bit of pretty ribbon or a bow.

Bonus: Party Pets

Get your furry friends in on the action with some cute holiday gear. Whether it’s a festive collar, hat, and/or sweater, decking your dog or kitty will surely bring a smile to your face.
 

So there you have it. We hope you’re inspired to make the most of your home this holiday season with a little (or a lot!) of festive decor. Turning your apartment into a Christmas wonderland can be anything from quick, easy, and inexpensive to time-consuming and elaborate. It’s all up to you! No matter how you celebrate, we wish you the happiest and most joyful holiday season. And tell your dog we said hi.

 

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6 WAYS TO KEEP YOUR PET SAFE THIS HOLIDAY SEASON https://www.fathproperties.com/blog/2023/11/27/6-ways-to-keep-your-pet-safe-this-holiday-season/ Mon, 27 Nov 2023 06:52:00 +0000 https://www.fathproperties.com/blog/2023/11/27/6-ways-to-keep-your-pet-safe-this-holiday-season/ ​The holiday season is upon us! It’s the most wonderful time of the year… provided it does not include an emergency visit to a veterinary clinic for your beloved pet. To keep your holidays merry and bright, and your pup or kitty safe, we’ve come up with a few tips so your pet gets nothing…

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​The holiday season is upon us! It’s the most wonderful time of the year… provided it does not include an emergency visit to a veterinary clinic for your beloved pet. To keep your holidays merry and bright, and your pup or kitty safe, we’ve come up with a few tips so your pet gets nothing but love, plenty of scritches, and perhaps a new toy from Santa Paws. Here’s our guide with six ways to keep your pet safe this holiday season.

  1. FOOD

Food and the holidays go hand in hand. Even if you are not entertaining, you will probably have foods in your home that are new to your pet. The best practice is simple: keep all people food out of the reach of your pet. And if your pet is like mine, they can become quite devious in their seek-to-eat escapades. One year I was enjoying a glass of red and a bit of 65% dark chocolate while addressing Christmas cards. When I left the room to get a refill, I tucked the candy into the desk drawer. In the amount of time it took me to top off my wine glass, Ollie had opened the drawer (?!?) and consumed all the chocolate. He was only 10 pounds, the chocolate was dark and gone, so off we went to the emergency animal hospital. I find it so interesting that whenever one of my dogs gets into trouble, it's always after normal vet office hours. Cha ching.

So skip the table scrap snacks. If you’re a softie, and must treat your pup to human food,

Treat your dog to:

  • Pumpkin purée (out of the can, not from the pie)
  • Unseasoned cooked veggies (sweet potatoes, baked potatoes, green beans, broccoli, carrots)
  • Turkey (unseasoned and without bones)
  • Apples (no core or seeds) and bananas
  • Unsweetened cranberries
  • Special treats on the list to Santa Paws include:
    • Chew toys that are basically indestructible
    • Kongs that can be stuffed with healthy foods
    • Chew treats that are designed to be safely digestible.
    • Long, stringy things are a feline's dream, but the riskiest toys for cats involve ribbon, yarn and loose little parts that can get stuck in the intestines, often necessitating surgery.
    • Surprise kitty with a new ball that's too big to swallow, a stuffed catnip toy or an interactive cat dancer.

Tell Rover “Absolutely Not” to:

  • Bones can easily splinter and can cause serious health problems (even death) for your pet.
  • Candy contains the sweetener xylitol which can actually lead to liver failure, so keep sweets of all kinds away from your pup, cat or ferret.
  • Chocolate contains theobromine, which can be extremely poisonous when ingested by dogs and may even result in seizures and death.
  • Dairy products like milk, cream, cheese, and butter are bad for dogs. They can cause diarrhea and other digestive disturbances as well as allergic reactions in dogs.
  • The entire onion family, including onion flakes, onion powder, chives, and garlic, may be an ingredient in many holiday foods, from mashed potatoes to gravy to stuffing. In fresh, cooked, dried, or powdered form, onions can lead to damaged blood cells and anemia.
  • Ham and bacon can cause pancreatitis, a potentially life-threatening disease, in dogs.
  • Nutmeg, in significant amounts, can be toxic, causing hallucinations, stomach pain, and possibly even seizures. Other spices can be dangerous, too, so it’s best not to feed dogs treats from your holiday dinner.
  • Nuts have a very high fat content and may contain other toxins that can result in stomach upset or other serious health complications. Macadamia nuts, in particular, when fed to your furry family member even in small amounts, can be especially toxic and result in vomiting, tremors, paralysis, rapid heartbeat, and other complications.
  • Citrus and pits. Keep foods containing citric acid away from your pets. Foods such as cherry pits, peach pits and apple seeds contain essential oils that can cause irritations, blockages and even central nervous system depression if a significant amount if ingested.
  • Caffeine from coffee, tea, or chocolate are an ingredient in some deserts or other holiday dishes. Caffeine can actually be fatal to canines.
  • Raisins and grapes consumed even in small quantities may cause rapid kidney failure in some dogs, and fruitcakes are one holiday offering likely to contain them. If you were thinking that you could unload an unwanted fruitcake on your pup, think again.
  • Salt abounds in many holiday dishes, and when consumed by dogs, can cause excessive thirst, urination, or worse. It’s especially detrimental to dogs with underlying kidney or cardiovascular conditions.
  • Sugar found in most holiday desserts can fuel cavities, obesity, and even diabetes. It’s also bad for dogs with arthritis.
  • Alcohol has the same effect on dogs’ livers and brains as on humans’, but it doesn’t take as much to cause serious damage and can even lead to respiratory distress, tremors, coma, and death. That rum cake? Off limits for Rover!
  • Eggnog is loaded with fat, sugar, milk, raw eggs, and alcohol, making it a quintuple whammy, none of which is good for Whisker’s health — or yours, for that matter.

  1. DECK THE HALLS

Who doesn’t love a beautifully decorated home for the holidays? Your pets may love your decorations too much. To keep your pet safe, follow these tips:

  • All By Myself. Never leave your pet alone in the room with lit candles, a decorated tree, or potpourri.
  • Boughs of Holly. Avoid mistletoe, lilies, and holly. Holly, when ingested, can cause pets to suffer nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Mistletoe can cause gastrointestinal upset and cardiovascular problems. Many varieties of lilies can cause kidney failure in cats if ingested. Opt for just-as-jolly artificial plants made from silk or plastic, or choose a pet-safe bouquet.
  • Tinsel Town. Kitties love the sparkly, light-catching tinsel "toy" that's easy to bat around and carry in their mouths. But a nibble can lead to a swallow, which can lead to an obstructed digestive tract, severe vomiting, dehydration and possible surgery. It's best to brighten your boughs with something other than tinsel.
  • Oh, Christmas Tree. Secure your Christmas tree to keep it from falling over if your dog bumps it or your cat climbs it. A falling tree may injure your pet (not to mention precious ornaments!). A properly secured tree will also prevent the tree water — which may contain fertilizers that can cause stomach upset — from spilling. Stagnant tree water is a breeding ground for bacteria, and your pet could end up with nausea or diarrhea should he imbibe. Hanging lemon-scented car air fresheners in the tree may deter your cat from climbing it.
  • Make sure your dogs or cats do not chew on limbs or droppings from the tree. Ingested pine needles could become lodged in the intestinal tract, puncturing the lining, or bunching together and causing an intestinal obstruction.
  • That Holiday Glow. Never leave lighted candles unattended. Pets may burn themselves or cause a fire if they knock candles over. Be sure to use appropriate candle holders, and place them on a stable surface. When you leave the room, put the candle out.
  • An Open Fire. If your dog enjoys chewing, avoid fake and fire starter logs. They contain sawdust and paraffin which can cause an irritated stomach or even intestinal blockage when ingested.
  • All Wired Up. Keep wires, batteries, strings of lights, and glass or plastic ornaments out of paws' reach. A wire can deliver a potentially lethal electrical shock and a punctured battery can cause burns to the mouth and esophagus, while shards of breakable ornaments can damage your pet's mouth and digestive tract.

  1. SILENT NIGHT

Give your pet its own quiet space to retreat, complete with fresh water, and a place to snuggle, and a favorite toy or two. Shy pups and cats might want to hide out under a piece of furniture, in their carrying case, kennel, crate, perching place, scratching post shelf or hiding place or in a separate room away from the hubbub and to escape the excitement (such as if you’re entertaining guests).  

Though the excitement of a party may overwhelm some pets, keep your pets inside during cold weather and provide plenty of toys to keep them busy.

Prepare ahead of party time with lots of play and exercise to discourage barking.

As you count down to the new year, please keep in mind that strings of thrown confetti can get lodged in a cat's intestines if ingested, perhaps necessitating surgery. Noisy poppers can terrify pets and cause possible damage to sensitive ears. And remember that many pets are also scared of fireworks, so be sure to secure them in a safe, escape-proof area as midnight approaches.

  1. GUESTS

Inform your visitors ahead of time that you have a pet, as some folks may be afraid of dogs or have allergies to pet dander.

Establish house rules with your guests regarding your animals. These rules should include your food and treat preferences, whether guests can feed from the table, if your pet enjoys being held (or not), and what kind of play is appropriate.  If your guests have small children, be sure you and their parents carefully watch to ensure kids don’t handle your pet too roughly or pay it too much attention.

Ask animal-loving guests if they’d like to give your pets a little extra attention and exercise while you're busy tending to the party. If they are so inclined, ask them to feel free to start a nice play or petting session.

Safeguard all of your medications behind secure doors, and be sure to tell your guests to keep their meds zipped up and packed away, too.

  1. TRASH

Pets who enjoy selecting their own snacks out of the trash bin can accidentally eat foods that are potentially poisonous to them. Keep trash in tightly sealed containers or hidden somewhere your pet can't access.

  1. IN CASE OF EMERGENCY

Be prepared for the worst-case scenario:

  • Identify your closest 24/7 emergency veterinary clinic before an emergency occurs.

  • Write down or store the number for your veterinarian or pet hospital in your phone.

  • Research, then save your pet hospital or clinic's holiday hours.

  • Write down or store the number of the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center: 888-426-4435 in your phone. Note that a consultation fee may apply.

 

For those of us who love our pets, the holidays wouldn’t be the same without them! Following simple guidelines can make sure your beloved pet stays safe this holiday season. And tell your dog we said hi.

 

 

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