It's the holiday season and you're all set to spend some time with family and friends to celebrate the season. The extra activity, decorations and added temptations could cause problems for the family pet. If you take a few precautions in advance, the holidays could be a merry for the family pet as it is for everyone else.

Decorate wisely. Anchor the tree and secure light cords to prevent any injuries. Avoid tinsel and ornaments that could be toxic, make sure breakable ornaments are hanging high and pet safe ornaments adorn the lower third of the tree.

Beware of seasonal plants. Mistletoe, berries, and poinsettias are toxic to animals and can cause an upset stomach or worse reaction. Because pets are tempted to drink out of any water bowl, you may want to avoid adding chemicals in the tree water.

Watch out for new dangers. Needles, tinsel, hooks, ribbon, foil, and cellophane may look like a toy to your pets, but could cause major damage if eaten.

Skip the season treats for your pet. A change of diet, even for one meal, can cause an upset stomach or diarrhea for a cat or dog. Skip the table scraps, bones, and chocolate and keep your garbage secure.

Set up a quiet area for your pet. This will give your pet a safe area during the hustle and bustle of the season and will cut down on escapes when company comes and goes.

Look for pet-friendly activities. Many area dog parks, shelters, rescues, and pet day care facilities offer a variety of pet and child friendly activities during the holidays. It's a great opportunity to include your more outgoing pet in fun activities outside the home

Heartland Holiday Activities

Santa visits Heartland Animal Shelter at 2975 Milwaukee Avenue in Northbrook on Saturday, December 11th and Sunday, December 12^th from 1-4 pm. For a $5 shelter donation, you and your pet may have your picture taken with Santa. Electronic photos will be emailed after the event. Stop by and tour the shelter and shop the bake sale. Heartland is also in need of items from the shelter wish list such as canned pet food (non-seafood), newspapers and towels during the holiday season. Heartlands full wish list may be found at www.heartlandanimalshelter.net/WishList.html.