The Holidays And Your Pet's

The Holidays And Your Pet's

As the holidays are fast approaching, it’s easy to put our pets on the back burner. However, what we don’t realize is that they feel the stress that we feel. Often times, they feel more stress because their routine is changing and they don’t understand why.

There are some ways make sure your pets are as stress free and comfortable as possible during the holiday season.

Ø Give them some extra love and affection.

Ø Go on extra walks (may be good for you as well with the stress).

Ø Offering a new toy or treat to help them pass the time and make them feel special.

Ø If there is a quiet place they prefer to rest; giving them a new bed or blanket. 

The most exciting part of the holidays for most people is setting up the Christmas tree, hanging lights in/outside the house, making all kinds of goodis and introducing all kinds of good smelling scents to the house! Here are some things you need to be aware of before decorating/cooking.

The most exciting part of the holidays for most people is setting up the Christmas tree, hanging lights in/outside the house, making all kinds of goodis and introducing all kinds of good smelling scents to the house! Here are some things you need to be aware of before decorating/cooking.

House Plants

Ø Poinsettias- Can cause gastrointestinal upset.

Ø Lilies- Can be deadly. Many types can cause kidney disease.

Ø Mistletoe with/without berries- Highly toxic, can cause gastrointestinal upset or fatal heart problems.

Ø Holly- Can cause vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy.

Candles/fragrances

Ø Candles can be knocked over causing hot wax to spill on your pet causing a burn or start a fire.

Ø Smoke from candles and other fragrances can cause some respiratory problems.

Ø Liquid potpourri and sachets- can cause skin or oral damage, leading to illness or death.

Food/treats

Ø Some fatty foods can cause digestive issues causing vomiting and/or diarrhea. Make sure the garbage is secure. This can also cause pancreatitis, which could lead to hospitalization.

Ø Bones- Can cause obstruction within the intestinal tract leading to a tear or requiring surgical removal.

Ø Grapes/Raisins- Can cause kidney failure.

Ø Chocolate- Baking chocolate is the most dangerous to our pets. It can lead to death. Other chocolates can cause vomiting, diarrhea, increase in heart rate causing damage.

Ø Alcohol- Can cause lethargy, weakness.

Ø Onions/Garlic- Can cause vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, anemia.

Ø Xylitol- Can cause low blood sugar, seizures, liver failure. 

Gift Giving

Giving pets as gifts seems to be very popular. What we may not realize is that choosing a pet is a big decision. A pet is a part of the family and the decision should not be made lightly. We recommend that you make an adoption kit. With this you can place objects such as a collar, leash, treats and maybe a gift certificate for adoption in it. This way you can go together to pick out a furry friend!

We recommend that you know where the closest emergency clinic is to you. Also having your Veterinarians number handy is a good idea also!

We hope that everyone has a safe and wonderful holiday season!