Tis’ the season for fun, family, food, and festive decor. While you are preparing for that holiday gathering don’t forget your four-legged friend. The holidays, while wonderful, can bring on some dangers for the family dog. Here are a few things to remember so that everyone enjoys the season.
As tempting as it may be, don’t share
It’s always nice to give your dog a treat, especially during the holidays. On the other hand, cleaning up unwanted messes or taking an unexpected trip to the vets is not. Avoid giving your dog any of these food items as they can cause them harm:
- Any sweets such as candy canes, gingerbread, etc.
- Alcoholic beverages and coffee. Spills happen, just be prepared.
- Chocolate is never good!
- Nutmeg, yeast dough, salt, sugar and other baking goods.
- Fat trimmings and turkey or ham bones.
- Grapes and raisins
Anything that is covered in spice and tomato sauce will not be good for your pets. It is best to just avoid giving them anything you are planning on serving especially if seasoned. When you are out getting those items you need for your feast just stop by the pet aisle and choose a healthy pet treat for them.
Watch out for those plants and decorations
During the holidays many people love to “deck the halls” with all things festive and bright. When you have a dog at home there are a few things you will need to be cautious of when decorating.
Lights are a staple when decorating inside and outside the home. This means there are wires everywhere. This can be tempting for any pet, it seems like something great to chew on. So, be careful and tuck those wires out of reach. Even those battery-powered items can burn a pup’s mouth if they decide to chew. Also, flames are hazardous. Don’t leave pets alone with fires lit, or candles aglow.
Tinsel is very attractive and so are fresh trees. However, ingesting these items can be harmful for dogs. Tinsel and anything with plastic can potentially cause a blockage in digestion. And fresh trees can be treated with chemicals that can make your dog sick. Be careful that your dog does not try to drink that tree water.
Ringing in the New Year
Most pets are not fond of the loud noises of poppers and fireworks. The loud banging and thunderous noises are scary to them. This is the time when many pets run off. Remember, they are just trying to get away from the noise. If you or your city celebrate with anything that makes loud noises be prepared to keep your dog inside. Let them find a quiet place they feel safe in, such as the bathroom or by your bedside. Keep a radio on or the T.V. And if nothing else helps calm them, crate them.
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