HOLIDAY SEASON SAFETY
The holidays are full of hustle and bustle and much excitement for the whole family, including our pets! While filled with joy and laughter, it’s important to keep a few things in mind.
HOLIDAY HARMFUL FOODS
It’s tempting to share our festive feasts with our pets, but some foods can be harmful. You’ll want to ensure no one is slipping dangerous snacks to them.
Foods considered to be toxic:
- Chocolate contains theobromine and caffeine that can be harmful or fatal for dogs.
- Grapes and raisins are highly toxic to dogs and can cause kidney failure.
- Onions can cause anemia by damaging red blood cells.
- Xylitol is an artificial sweetener used in some brands of peanut butter, gum and toothpaste. Even small amounts can cause hypoglycemia, seizures, liver failure, or even death.
- Macadamia Nut ingestion can lead to muscle weakness, CNS depression, vomiting, and hyperthermia (high body temperature).
COOKED BONES
When bones are subject to high temperatures, they become brittle and tend to shard. Those sharp shards can do a lot of damage to the digestive tract, pose a choking hazard, and potentially damage teeth. The best thing for our pets is to feed them raw, meaty bones only and toss the cooked bones in the trash.
DANGERS OF RAWHIDE
Many people don’t know the dangers of rawhide chews. They are one of the most popular “treats” for dogs and can come with some serious risks.
Beyond being a choking hazard and the number one cause of digestive blockages, rawhide products are not even by-products of the meat industry, they are a by-product of the leather industry. The discarded leather is processed with harmful chemicals like formaldehyde, bleach, paint and other toxic substances to make them look like dog chews.
Save a trip to the veterinarian and choose healthier, natural chews that are fully digestible and safe for our pets!
DECORATIONS
Tinsel and glittering or glass ornaments make the season shimmer with beauty, but they also can be enticing for our pets! These shiny things can cause serious health issues if ingested. Rather than take the chance, opt for pet-friendly decorations and keep the lower branches of your Christmas tree free of easily accessible trinkets that can be captured by a furry friend on the hunt!
A PEACEFUL RETREAT
The excitement and noise of holiday celebrations can be overwhelming and cause unnecessary stress for our pets. Even though we want them to be part of the festivities and they want to participate too, it is always best to set up a quiet, cozy space where they can retreat and find some peace. They can enjoy the holidays while still having a place to relax all to themselves.
