Myth-busting quiz: Spot the real holiday hazards

Holiday festivities, decorations, and food items can wreak havoc on undiscerning pets that love to taste-test everything that appears new and interesting. But not all holiday goodies are bad for pets. Take this quiz, courtesy of Pet Poison Helpline, and debunk several common myths that cause unnecessary stress each holiday season.

Here’s how: Read the sentence and click on “Fact” or “Myth” to make your decision and see if you’re right. Need a refresher on toxic plants and people food for pets before you begin? Click on the related links below the quiz.

1) Poinsettias are highly toxic to dogs and cats.

Fact

Myth

2) Mistletoe poses little threat to dogs and cats.

Fact

Myth

3) Lillies are extremely toxic to cats.

Fact

Myth

4) Tinsel and ribbons are pet-friendly decorations.

Fact

Myth

5) Liquid potpourri can cause serious harm to cats.

Fact

Myth

6) Fruitcake is a healthy holiday treat for pets.

Fact

Myth

7) Sharing a table scrap or two can harm a pet.

Fact

Myth

8) Baked goods are acceptable treats for pets so long as they don’t include chocolate.

Fact

Myth

Pet Poison Helpline is a service available 24 hours, seven days a week for pet owners and veterinary team members who require assistance treating a potentially poisoned pet and can provide treatment advice for poisoning cases of all species, including dogs, cats, birds, small mammals, large animals, and exotic species. As the most cost-effective option for animal poison control care, Pet Poison Helpline's fee of $35 per incident includes follow-up consultation for the duration of the poisoning case. It is available in North America by calling 800-213-6680. Click here for additional information.

Dr. Ahna Brutlag is the assistant director of veterinary services with SafetyCall® International and Pet Poison Helpline" (PPH). Dr. Brutlag obtained her BA from the College of St. Benedict and then received her veterinary degree at the University of Minnesota. Currently, she is preparing for board certification through the American Board of Veterinary Toxicology by dividing her time between the poison control center and the completion of a master's degree in toxicology at the University of Minnesota. Dr. Brutlag has written multiple textbook chapters and has lectured throughout the United States in the field of small animal toxicology. The primary focus of her publications and presentations include rodenticide toxicity, toxic plants, common pharmaceutical poisonings, and the safety of household products. She prefers to spend her free time reading fiction, expanding her culinary palate, and exploring historic cemeteries.