We’re pulling the Christmas decorations out of the attic this weekend… and I’m thinking that I may have to change the way we do some things since this will be the first holiday season that we have a dog!
Did you know that the holidays are one of the most dangerous times of the year for our four-legged companions? House guests, decorations, and rich foods can provide potential hazards for your family pet. Dr. Jessica Vogelsang, small animal vet and founder of Pawcurious.com, shares the following expert tips for keeping your pet safe during the holidays.
- Ensure you’re prepared if your pet gets out
With all the holiday visitors and festivities, it’s easy for stressed pets to slip out the door or backyard. Be sure your pet has its tags and microchips updated with your current address and phone number.
Consider a GPS product like Tagg – The Pet Tracker to calm your fears. Tagg attaches to your pet’s collar and will send you an alert if your pet does slip out, and then allows you to track your pet’s location in real time so you can pick him up and bring him home!
- Be aware of holiday fragrances
Candles are a fire and burn risk, of course. Many owners turn to scented potpourri, thinking it is a safer option, but it is extremely caustic when ingested and can cause esophageal ulcers.
- Mind the string
Cats love ribbons, string and tinsel. But when ingested, they can lead to a painful condition called “string foreign body” and can actually perforate the intestine.
- Keep an eye on the holiday treats
Although everyone knows chocolate is toxic, the most common reason pets wind up in the ER is because they ingested too much fatty food and gave themselves an upset stomach or pancreatitis. If you have a relative who insists on feeding the pet treats, keep a bowl of special pet-friendly holiday treats nearby and ask them to feed your pet those instead of pieces of sausage!
- Know where the emergency vet is located
If your pet has an emergency, you can’t call 911. The last thing you want to have to do in that situation is look up directions to the vet clinic when you’re stressed and in a hurry! Know their phone number and map out the location ahead of time.
YOUR TURN: Do you have any advice on anything I should keep an eye out for?
I agree to above tips for our pets safety. I am agreeable specially on being keen to what they eat this holiday season!!! They will surely have a feisty meal every now and then and that would cause them sick!! Perhaps, I will keep off the visitors from my dog. Prevention is better than cure that is!!
Cheers!