Special Report: Holiday Pets

Twas the night before Christmas and all through the house not a creature was stirring ---not even a.....

Well -- not exactly.

Dr. Jan Bellows/Hometown Animal Hospital
"It's very important for people to really pay attention totheir pets during the holidays."

The glitter - the lights - eye candy to animals - can turn into a holiday hazard.

Dr. Jan Bellows/Hometown Animal Hospital
"It's bright. It's shiny. They're drawn to it and they don't knowit can hurt them."

Make sure the tree is secure - even out of reach. Help discourage climbing by spraying ammonia or bitter apple - animals hate the taste and smell.

another problem....

Caroline Crane/Humane Society of Broward County
"Put the dangling type and breakable ornaments on the top of the tree."

Don't keep presents with ribbons and bows under the tree - animals may chew on them.

That tree water is dangerous too.

Dr. Jan Bellows/Hometown Animal Hospital
"That water is a cesspool of disease and poisons."

Don't let them drink it.

An artificial tree may be a better alternative.and careful with holiday plants.

Caroline Crane,Humane Society of Broward County
"The poinsettas, holly and mistletoe are poisionous to your pets."

To prevent burns or electrocution - candles and extension cords must be out of sight.

Dr. Jan Bellows/Hometown Animal Hospital
"The number one worry is tinsel. It gets caught in the intestines and acts as a saw back and forth and it can kill them."

No table scraps - keep alcoholic beverages out of reach. Put pets in a secure room when you have guests.

Caroline Crane/Humane Society of Broward County
"Supervision, supervision, supervision around the holidays."

And to all a good night. Jeff Glor, 7-news