The holiday season can be a difficult time for pets.
Donna Gilson of the Department of Agriculture, Trade, and Consumer Protection says there can be a variety of dangers around your home during the holidays.
Among them, decorations on trees can be deadly. Gilson says animals will often chew on tinsel, light cords, and even the greenery on the tree. Also, glass ornaments can be dangerous if they're knocked off the tree and shatter on the floor.
Mistletoe and poinsettias can make pets sick, and other plants also cause problems.
She says chocolate and other people food can cause difficulties for your pet, and you should also keep any alcoholic beverages where pets can not lap them up.
Gilson also cautions that you should never surprise someone with a pet as a gift. She says animal shelters in February are full of pets people thought would be a perfect gift. Gilson says a pet is a big commitment and somebody has to choose to make it.
AUDIO: John Burton reports (MP3 :58)
