Christmas is a time of getting together with those you care about, not the time for a trip to the emergency vet clinic. Watch out for some potentially dangerous situations that could present risk to your dog or cat this season.
Some Christmas culprits that could be hazardous for your pet are:
Cords. The electrical cords and wires to your holiday décor are an alluring hazard for pets. Watch for signs that your pet has been chewing these cords as it can electrocute or burn your dog or cat. Consider investing in a tech-box that will safely hide and contain the cords that you use for your holiday tree and lights.
Christmas flowers. Poinsettias, mistletoe, hibiscus, and holly are all toxic, causing a variety of illnesses in pets, from heart problems to diarrhea. Use artificial greenery and Christmas flowers to play it safe when dogs or cats live in the home.
Chocolate treats. The darker the chocolate, the more hazardous it is to your pet. Also, keep your pet away from grapes and onions. The wrappers from alluring candies or goodies pose a risk of choking and should be discarded in a covered trash can.
Cocktails. Make sure to pick up cocktail glasses and barware after your holiday party. Alcohol consumption can lead to coma in dogs and cats, and alcohol should never be within easy reach of your pet.
Company. Don't underestimate the stress that strangers and the sound of the doorbell can cause on your pet. This chaos can lead many pets to flee their homes at the first chance, whenever the door is opened. Secure your pet in a 'safe room' with familiar items, food, and water, and always make sure your pet is wearing their collar and ID tags, in the event they get out of the house.
Christmas decorations. Christmas tinsel and ribbons can cause intestinal blockages when consumed by your pet; glass ornaments on a tree also present a risk as they can become broken and cut your pet's mouth or paws. Also, watch what you water or add to the water of your live tree; these can also be toxic for curious and thirsty pets. Deter pets from your holiday tree with a spray deterrent, often sold at pet stores and vet offices.
Make sure to pay heed to hazards that could make your pet very ill this holiday season. If you feel that your pet has ingested one of these Christmas culprits, take them to an emergency vet in your area. Quick response may provide a more favorable prognosis for your four-legged companion. Contact a clinic like Coastal Carolina Animal Hospital to learn more.
Share20 December 2016
Do you know the types of diseases that are most likely to cause death in dogs? My name is Anne, and I have owned several dogs in the my lifetime. I enjoy training, playing with, and caring for dogs of all sizes and breeds. Throughout my time as a dog owner, I have discovered that there are several illnesses that are common causes of death in dogs and that some breeds are more likely to get these diseases than other breeds. This blog will explain various common deadly diseases in dogs and give advice about how to prevent and treat these illnesses.
