Monday, November 19, 2018

Pet Safety Tips for the Holidays

Keeping your pet out of trouble isn’t easy when you have lots of holiday planning to do. That’s why we’re here to remind you about the potential danger that certain holiday foods, decorations, and plants can pose for your pet. See below for important information and be sure to contact us if you have any questions! 
Food Dangers

We don’t recommend giving your pet table scraps under any circumstances, though we know how tempting that can be during the holidays. Goodies are everywhere, and it’s hard to resist your pet’s pitiful look. With that being said, make sure to keep these foods away from your pet at all costs:
· Meat bones 
· Onions, garlic, chives, leeks, and shallots
· Any type of chocolate
· Candies and baked treats that may contain sugar substitutes such as xylitol, which is highly toxic for animals
· Cashews, macadamia nuts, walnuts, and pecans
· Foods rich in dairy, including whipped cream
· Pumpkin pie and sweet potato casserole
· Alcoholic and caffeinated beverages

Decorations

Use caution when putting these decorations out and make sure they are ‘pet-proofed.’

· Christmas trees: place your tree in a secure corner and avoid placing ornaments near the bottom where they make easy targets. The needles and sap of fir or pine trees can be toxic when ingested, so clean up any tree-related messes and keep the water in the tree stand covered.
· Avoid having open flames anywhere, particularly where your pet can each them. Use artificial flame candles instead.
· Since tinsel is a choking hazard, consider alternatives when decorating your tree/home.
· Keep electrical cords for strands of lights covered, placed out of reach, or wrapped in double-sided tape to prevent chewing. Also be mindful about leaving cords where your pet (or a relative) might trip over them.

Plants

There are a variety of toxic plants out there, and these holiday favorites are especially dangerous for dogs and cats:
· Holly
· Mistletoe
· Jerusalem cherry

Contrary to popular belief, poinsettias are not nearly as harmful as once thought. Aside from mild stomach upset or drooling, other symptoms are unlikely.

Additional Reminders

Candy wrappers, gift wrap, ribbons, string, and twine are other choking hazards to consider. Clean up messes, clear off tables, and keep any other easy-to-swallow items out of your pet’s reach. We also recommend letting all of your holiday guests know not to give your pet table scraps, as they could make your pet sick. You can keep your pet happy by giving them their own food and treats, and lavishing attention on them whenever possible!