Live Trees: Fir, spruce, and pine trees make excellent Christmas trees and are generally non-toxic to pets. The needles, however, can cause oral irritation and in excessive amounts, gastrointestinal upset.
Christmas time is a joyous occasion of celebration, family, and festivity. It is also the time of year when people set up Christmas trees in their homes, often around pets. While it is certainly understandable to want to enjoy the holiday season with your pet, it is important to be aware of the potential dangers posed to them by Christmas trees. Unfortunately, many of the materials used in the production of Christmas trees, such as pine needles, can be toxic to animals, particularly dogs. In this blog post, we will discuss the potential dangers posed to dogs by Christmas trees, and how to protect your pet from potential harm. So, if you have a pet, particularly a dog, it is essential to read this post to ensure your Christmas tree is not a hazard.
Because you know he’ll try to eat it
Although you enjoy admiring your Christmas tree, your dog probably views all the decorations and lights as toys. He may therefore attempt to play with them or even chew on your tree.
But is it harmful for dogs to eat Christmas trees, or is it acceptable if your dog takes a bite?
The Dodo spoke to Dr. Paul Cunningham, a senior emergency clinician at BluePearl Specialty and Emergency Pet Hospital in Michigan, to find out if Christmas trees are toxic to dogs.
Are real Christmas trees safe for dogs?
Your Christmas tree may be beautiful, but if your dog eats it, it could be dangerous.
Live Christmas trees are not poisonous to any animal that walks by them, according to Dr Cunningham told The Dodo. “Instead, ingesting branches, needles, or water from the tree stand can make you sick.” ”.
Here’s why Christmas trees can be bad for dogs.
Amaryllis and Daffodils are also considered poisonous for pets. If consumed, pets may vomit, display signs of depression, or exhibit abdominal pain and loss of appetite.
On the other hand, pets can be seriously poisoned by mistletoe. If ingested, pets may exhibit gastrointestinal distress or clinical symptoms of poisoning, including altered mental function, breathing difficulty, or a low heart rate.
Dr. The Texas A&M University College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences (CVM)’s Dorothy Black said that although poinsettias are frequently described as being highly toxic, this isn’t the case. Feel free to display them at Christmas. ”.
Some animals that consume daffodils or amaryllis will exhibit tremor-like symptoms, according to Black. “This can be a sign of severe toxicity. ”.
“You should seek veterinary assistance as soon as you can if you notice these symptoms in your pet and think or know they ingested mistletoe,” Black advised. “Mistletoe shouldn’t be used where pets could possibly reach it. ”.
FAQ
What happens if a dog eats Christmas tree?
Depending on your dog’s size and how much she consumes, they are not digestible and may be mildly toxic. The fir tree oils may aggravate your dog’s mouth and stomach, resulting in excessive drooling or vomiting. Tree needles also can obstruct or puncture her gastrointestinal tract.
Can Christmas tree needles make dogs sick?
Pine needles, whether they are on your Christmas tree, a wreath, or some garland, can be dangerous if consumed. Your dog’s stomach lining may be punctured or irritated by the needles, and the oils may aggravate the mucous membranes. Your pet may not die from the needles, but they can make him very uncomfortable and sick.
Is Christmas tree sap poisonous to dogs?
Live Christmas trees are not poisonous to any animal that walks by them, according to Dr Cunningham told The Dodo. “Instead, ingesting branches, needles, or water from the tree stand can make you sick.” ”.
Can dogs chew on Christmas tree branches?
Branches and Needles A live tree can be especially hazardous. Dogs enjoy chewing on the branches, and the oils from fir trees can irritate the mouth tissue and result in symptoms like drooling and vomiting.