The holiday season is a festive time filled with decorations, food and finery. It can also be a dangerous time of year for Buddy and Fluffy, unless you take some special precautions to keep them safe from holiday hazards.

Hang decorations high
That towering Christmas tree will attract your curious kitty or playful pup. Be sure it is well secured so that it won't come toppling down if your pet bounds into or onto it. Keep electrical cords and tree lights out of reach, they can cause serious harm if chewed on

Select ornaments with your pet in mind. Don't hang glass balls in reach of your pet and use garland, rather than tinsel, which can cause intestinal obstructions if ingested. Be sure to retrieve any ornament hooks that drop on the floor.

Choose plants carefully
Holiday plants can also be a threat. Mistletoe and holly are extremely poisonous when ingested. Also avoid lilies and hibiscus - or place them high out of reach of pets. Be sure to check those gift floral arrangements for sprays of dangerous plants.

The Poinsettia, though typically thought of as poisonous to pets, is fairly low in toxicity but can cause irritation to a pets mouth and stomach.

Other holiday hazards
Children's toys can present a poisoning or choking hazard. Be sure small toy pieces, plastic model cement, crayons and paints are put away or out of reach when not in use. Wrapping paper, ribbon, and tape also represent potential dangers. Remove them as soon as possible.

Some pets will ingest Christmas tree water. Stagnant water can be a breeding ground for bacteria, which can lead to vomiting and diarrhea. If your pet is likely to try to drink tree water, don't add preservatives or aspirin additives.

Use candles with caution. Never leave lighted candles unattended and be sure they are securely anchored so they won't be dislodged by the swat of a paw or tail. Better yet, only use candles with domes or cylinders that enclose the flame.

Food, dangerous food
Some holidays foods can spell disaster for pets. Rich, fatty foods can cause stomach upset, or even pancreatitis or bloating. Poultry bones can splinter and get stuck in a pet's mouth, obstruct his throat, or perforate his intestines.

Keep chocolate well out of reach. The scent of cocoa is enticing to dogs, and as little as one ounce can be fatal for a small dog (under 10 lbs.). Chocolate poisoning requires emergency medical treatment.

Have a supply of your pets' favorite treats on hand and offer them when other family members are enjoying all those delicious smelling holiday goodies.

The great escape
With holiday guests coming and going, be careful about open doors. Be sure your pets have collars with identification tags - and wear them at all times - in case of an escape.

With a little thought and care, you and your pets can enjoy a dog-gone great holiday season. For more advice on keeping your pets safe, visit the American Animal Hospital Association's website at www.healthypet.com.