Holiday Safety
Keep Your Pets Off the Naughty List!
image source: wallarthd.com
We all enjoy holiday celebrations but as pet owners, we must take preventative measures to protect our four-legged family members. Holiday foods and decorations can be more dangerous than you think.
Chocolate, for example, can actually be deadly to dogs. Other harmful foods include bones from turkey and other meats, which can splinter and puncture internal organs. Fatty foods can cause acute pancreatitis, and sugar-free candy and gum containing xylitol can cause vomiting, lethargy, seizures and liver failure. Alcohol in any form can result in coma and seizures.
Holiday decorations are also responsible for many untimely visits to an emergency clinic. These include burns and electrocution from electrical cords, candles and fireplaces. Plants such as poinsettias, mistletoe and holly can result in vomiting, diarrhea or heart arrhythmia.
We also see far too many cases of pets choking on Christmas tree lights, ornaments, tinsel and ribbons, which can become tangles in the intestines. Secure Christmas trees to prevent them from falling on curious kitties who love to climb!
Other winter items to keep out of reach are ice melt products, wiper fluids and anti-freeze. Ingestion can lead to kidney failure and death for cats and dogs. The batteries used in toys and electronics can cause obstruction and burns to the esophagus. Also be sure to remind guests to keep human medications out of reach.
Apart from these dangers, holidays can be traumatic for pets with a sudden increase in guests and noise levels. It's a good idea to have one area in your home that is off limits to guests and children where your pets can find refuge.
With a little preparation, you can make the holidays safe for your furry friends. If you suspect an accident or illness, however, be sure to call us right away.
If you have any questions, feel free to call us at (918) 609-6111 or visit our Contact Us page.
Happy holidays from FAM!
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