Holiday Tips

The holiday season is a time for cookies, candy, and family feasting. However, many of these goodies can cause our pets to have upset stomachs and in some cases, can be dangerous. Chocolate is toxic to animals so remember to keep the candy, cakes and cookies out of your pets reach. That turkey drumstick may be a tasty treat for your pet, but the bones can cause stomach upset and even life threatening obstructions or perforations. So indulge your pet with love over the holidays and not with food.


The Christmas tree is a beautiful part of the Christmas season but, without care can be a medical nightmare for your pet! Do not allow your pet to chew on ornaments which can cause cuts in the mouth and even stomach upset. Christmas tree lights can seem like a wonderful toy to your pets and can result in dangerous electrical shock injuries. Do not use tinsel on your tree because they can cause life threatening intestinal obstructions, especially in cats. Finally, don't let your pet drink the water from your Christmas tree stand.

Gifts

When choosing the perfect gift for your furry or feathered friend, remember safety! Rawhide and bone toys can cause stomach upset or intestinal obstructions. Make sure toys are the appropriate size for your pet so that they can play without injury. Make sure its not too small that could be swallowed or get stuck on the paws etc.

It can be very tempting to give that cute fuzzy kitten or puppy as a present. But remember that pets require a lifetime commitment not a commitment that everyone can make. Take the time to think it over and plan ahead before making the decision to give that cute fuzzy animal a home.

Weather

Be sure to protect your pet from the cold weather. Even short periods of time with cold windy weather can result in painful frostbite. Make sure your pet can get out of the elements if they get too cold! You may even want to provide your pets with their own winter clothes. This is especially a good idea for short coated and toy breeds of dog.

Outside

Rock salt or snow melt can cause severe skin irritation and even chemical burns if your pet walks on it. It can also cause stomach upset. Many products claim to be 'pet friendly', but even these can cause some irritation to the skin. Make sure to wipe the salt off your pets feet.

Antifreeze and windshield deicing fluids contain ethylene glycol which is extremely toxic. Even small amounts can be lethal and because of its sweet taste, pets like to drink it. It is very important to keep these out of reach of animals and dispose of them properly and to clean up any accidental spills. If you know or suspect your animal has ingested ethylene glycol, contact your veterinarian at once. Without immediate treatment, intoxicated animals can rapidly develop life threatening kidney failure.

Plants

Many holiday plants are poisonous if eaten by your pet some examples include poinsettia plants, lilies, holly, mistletoe and even Christmas tree needles! Keep theses plants where your pet cannot reach them. If your plant ingests a plant that is or you think may be poisonous contact your veterinarian

Lastly

Don't overlook your pets medical needs while you are preparing for the holidays. Take time in your busy schedule to take your pet to the doctor if they aren't feeling well. A quick visit now could prevent an emergency visit on Christmas day!