Holiday Safety Tips for Your Pets

Why not take a few extra steps to ensure your pets well-being during the Holiday season? Here are a few simple steps you can take to keep your furry friends healthy and safe.

• Poinsettias, mistletoe, holly and pine needles are harmful to cats as well as dogs (also many other plants).
• Ribbons, yarn, and string can cause intestinal obstruction and bunching of the intestine along the length of the string. These conditions require surgery and can be fatal. Ribbons around your pet’s neck may be cute, but they can also be dangerous.

• Dough can expand in the stomach and cause serious problems.
• Chocolate, coffee and tea are very toxic for dogs. Even small amounts can cause diarrhea, seizures, or death. Unsweetened baking chocolate and dark chocolate are the most dangerous.
• Sweets, greasy, and spicy foods can cause pancreatitis which is a serious inflammation in the pancreas and can be fatal.
• Garbage contains discarded food and the smells can be enticing for your dog. Keep garbage covered and out of reach.
• Cleaning products such as disinfectants get a lot of use during the holidays as we spiff up our homes for visitors. Remember, many of these products can be toxic to your pets.

With all the activity of the holidays, your dog may get over excited – which can lead to bad behavior. The solution: a well exercised dog is a happy (and tired) dog. Take your dog for a long walk or extended exercise sessions before your guests arrive, you sit down to dinner, or you leave your pet alone for an extended period.