December - Holiday Pet Safety

Picture
Keep your pets happy and safe this holiday season!  We want the holidays to be a happy time for your family and your pet. The food and decorations that make the holidays so much fun for us can be dangerous for your pet. We want you to be aware of the dangers and plan carefully to avoid these potential issues.

We want the holidays to be a happy time for your family and your pet.  The food and decorations that make the holidays so much fun for us can be dangerous for your pet.  We want you to be aware of the dangers and plan carefully to avoid these potential hazards in your home.

•  Rich, fatty foods can cause an upset stomach in your dog, or could cause a medical condition called pancreatitis.  Be sure not to feed your dog your holiday dinner.

•  Chocolate, coffee, tea, and other desserts should be placed out of your dogs reach.  Avoid placing gum or food (or other items you don’t want to be eaten) in stockings.

•  Ribbons, yarn, tinsel, and string can look like fun play toys to our pets, but can cause major problems when ingested.

•  Open fire, such as fireplaces and candles can all pose threats as well.  Be sure to keep candles on high shelves and have a guard over your fireplace.

•  The Christmas tree can also be a danger.  Dogs may be confused as to why you brought their bathroom in the house – so watch for dogs attempting to pee on the tree.  Do not let your dog drink the water under the tree either.  Ornaments should be up high so dogs do not eat them or send them flying with their happy tail!  A great idea is to gate off your room with the tree to avoid all of these issues.

•  Electrical cords, especially extensions, can cause a risk if your dog/cat enjoys chewing.

•  Certain holiday plants, if eaten by our pets, can be toxic.  Be sure to look up the type of plant to see if it is toxic before decorating the house for the season.

Winter Outdoor Safety

- Keep antifreeze away from your pets – it is toxic.
- Walk on cleared sidewalks or roadways if possible.  Salt, sand, and ice on the pavement can irritate or injure dog’s paws. 
- Don’t leave your pet outside in the cold for long periods of time. Be attentive to your pet’s body temperature and limit its time outside.
- Provide plenty of fresh water.  Your dog is just as likely to get dehydrated in the winter.