HOLIDAY PET HAZARDS
As the holidays approach, we want you to be aware of these holiday hazards to your pet. Some of the most common holiday hazards include:
Bones: Treating our pet with bones sounds like a nice thing to do, but many people are unaware of the harm bones can cause. Small bones or bone chips can lodge in the throat, stomach and intestinal tract. Chewing bones can result in an unwanted trip to the veterinarian over the holidays.
Holiday plants: Holly and mistletoe ar extremely poisionous when eaten. The pointsetta is not truly poisionous, but it can cause severe gastric distress when eaten.
Electrical Cords: Holiday lights mean electrical cords for kittens and puppies to chew. Be sure to secure your electrical cords out of the way.
Holiday Tree: Make sure your tree is well secured. A tree-climbing cat or large tail wagging dog can send your tee toppling. Secure your tree to the wall using strong cord or rope. Tree preservatives in the water can cause gastric upset for your pet if they drink the water. Be sure the water is inaccessible or do not use tree preservatives, sugar or aspirin in your tree water.
Ornaments: Sharp or breakable ornaments and dreidels should be kept out of reach. String objects, especially tinsel and ribbons, must be kept away from your pets, particularly your cats. Although cats love to play with these objects, they can wrap around the intestines or ball up in the stomach causing much damage and distress to your pet.
Company and stress: With all the coming and going, watch out for open doors and sneaky pets. Be sure your pet’s collar is tagged with the correct contact information in case of escape. Remind company that sometimes your normally friendly dog or cat may be less than willing to deal with enthusiastic children and rooms full of unfamiliar people. Provide a special quiet place with a blanket and fresh water for your pets to retreat to when the festivities get too stressful.
Treats - yes, treats! Too many treats during the holidays can cause gastric upset and/or expand your pet’s waistline, so monitor the amount of goodies and remember that food is not love and extra attention will give you the same reaction as a treat.
WE HOPE THAT YOU AND YOUR PETS ENJOY YOUR HOLIDAYS!