Paws Corner
Holiday safety-important facts to remember
By SAM MAZZOTTA

It's that time again, when the house fills with decorations, food and holiday guests. But as we plan our various activities between now and the new year, we must remember our pets and make sure they are safe.

Here are a few tips to remember during the holiday season - and throughout the year:

-Chocolate is dangerous! Keep it away from pets, especially dogs, as chocolate contains a compound that is poisonous to them and can cause vomiting, convulsions and even death.

-Clean up frequently. Don't leave wrappers, tinsel, small toys, batteries or food lying around; pets will ingest them, and that can cause serious problems.

-Hang 'em high. Decorations should be placed well out of reach of your pet. Cats love playing with dangling ornaments, and some dogs think they're just delicious.

-Protect from electrical cords. Pets sometimes like to chew on power cords, or play with them, risking electrocution. Remove unnecessary electrical, telephone, and computer cords and cabling. Existing cords can be bundled or wrapped in special plastic sheaths, available at home improvement stores, to deter Fido's fangs and keep them from snaking in all directions.

-Supervise pets during parties. Sometimes pets can get stressed-out by crowds of strangers, so provide a quiet room with food, water, a litter box for cats, and a favorite blanket to curl up on. Bring your pet out for a few minutes to greet people and then let him or her rest.

-Keep emergency numbers in reach. If your pet ingests something it shouldn't or is injured, contact your vet, or emergency clinic, right away.

Send your tips, questions and comments to Paws Corner, c/o King Features Weekly Service, P.O. Box 536475, Orlando, FL32853-6475, or e-mail them to pawscorner@hotmail.com.

(c) 2006 King Features Synd., Inc.