As the outside temperature falls, people and pets tend to spend more time
indoors. Some common dangers include:

* Certain plants are a menace to dogs and cats: Poinsettias irritate the
stomach and eyes. Berries of the Jerusalem cherry are toxic, and cause
pain, vomiting and diarrhea. Holly and mistletoe, amaryllis, chrysanthemum,
rhododendron and winter broom as well as Christmas berry, cherry, pepper
and rose can all cause problems to pets that ingest them. Note: Liquid
potpourri can cause terrible burns in an animal's mouth should it be ingested.

* Candles are a great attraction for pets, but don't leave them alone in a
room with a menorah or candelabra blazing. A careless swish of a tail can
be disastrous.

* Have your furnace evaluated for potential carbon monoxide leakage. Pets
are generally in your house for longer periods than people and have a
higher potential for carbon monoxide poisoning.

* Also, in the winter, house fires are more apt to occur. People often use
space heaters, electric blankets and other heating products. If not
carefully monitored, these items can be causes of house fires. Pets caught
in a fire have the potential to be badly burned and suffer from smoke
inhalation.