When feeding your pet treats, it is important to know that they should not eat certain foods. In general “people food” should be given to pets sparingly if at all, but some foods can be toxic. Most of greasy holiday foods that we love to eat are not good for them and overfeeding can make them ill. In particular do not feed them chocolate - it can be fatal especially to cats. So make sure you move those valentine candies, Easter eggs and chocolate Santas out of pets reach. Other foods to avoid are onions, alcohol and poultry bones. In addition, birds should not be fed avocados, dairy products, fruit seeds, potatoes, cabbage, green beans, lemons, rhubarb, grapefruit, plums and, of course, caffeine, chocolate, and alchohol. Any of these can be harmful and even fatal to your feathered friend! Also, keep in mind that fumes from non stick pans can be fatal for pet birds so keep your bird out of kitchen, or better yet, switch to cast iron pans.

When decorating with plants either for holidays or just in general, keep pet safety in mind. There are many toxic plants but common toxic holiday plants include potted bulbs, ivy, holly, mistletoe and greens (contrary to popular belief poinsettia are not overly dangerous but I still wouldn't let my pet eat one!). This is not an exhaustive list so before you bring any new plant into house please research it's toxicity.

It’s just as important to look out for your pets safety outside as it is inside. Beware that antifreeze is extremely toxic to pets. Keep your pet away from any puddles that might contain it. Rock salt can be irritating to pet paws and also to their stomach if eaten or licked off paws. Use common sense when practicing pet safety during winter months.

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5. Costumes may look strange to people, but just imagine what they look like to a dog or cat. Animals aren't used to seeing that kind of thing, and it could frighten them. So, it's best not take them trick or treating.

6. If your pet isn’t good with strangers, it’s best to put her in a separate room away from door, so she won’t be bothered by presence of strangers.

7. If your pet is going to be free in house, with door being opened repeatedly, there is more of a chance that your pet can get outside. So, remember to make sure he is wearing his license tags. That way, if he does get away, there is a better chance of getting him back home sooner.

James Kelly is the owner of Travelin Pets, a web site specializing in providing information and quality products for traveling pets and their owners.

Visit his website at: http://www.travelinpets.com e-mail: tpservices@travelinpets.biz