Vet Blog

Pet Safety For The Holidays

November 30, 2018

Here are a few reminders for pet safety over the holiday season.

Please check with your local vet and know who to call in case of an after-hours emergency. The ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (APCC) is your best resource for any animal poison-related emergency, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. If you think your pet may have ingested a potentially poisonous substance, call (888) 426-4435.

Plants - "Poinsettias, Holly, and Mistletoe… Oh my" - Did you know that these common Christmas plants are poisonous to both dogs and cats? Consider using artificial plant décor if you have pets around.

Food - Tis the Season for Christmas cookies, Turkey, and Pumpkin Pie… While those puppy dog eyes are sure tempting, please don't give Fido any of your food. That turkey has been cooked in garlic, butter, or other seasonings that can be extremely toxic to your pet. Skip on the ham too as pork products can lead to pancreatitis, vomiting, and diarrhea in pets. Stuffing is also a bad idea as it can contain mushrooms, grapes, raisins, or onions which are all poisonous to your pets. As much as you love your pet, please make sure there is no snacking on scraps at the table.

Burning Candles - Coming home to that fresh scent of pine is a wonderful holiday feeling, but please don't burn candles at home with pets. We know cats can be curious, and dogs can be aloof. That wagging tail should stay away from an open flame. Please use a screen if you have a fireplace as well to protect your furry friends from burns.

Ornaments - Ornaments or a cat toy? Your cat may see them as one in the same. If you have pets, stick to shatterproof ornaments and hang them high. We don't want them to cut themselves or ingest a part of the ornament that could cause an intestinal blockage.

Wrapping - When wrapping or unwrapping presents be sure to keep your pets away. Wrapping paper, ribbons, strings, bows, etc. can all cause intestinal blockage or choking hazards. Be cautious about leaving wrapped gifts under the tree as well where your pets can get to them.

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