Happy Holidays! Our furry friends are part of our respective families, so of course you want to include them in all the fun and festivities! Here are a few reminder tips to help your best friends enjoy the season:
Health
Be sure to keep mealtime and exercise as consistent as possible.
Steer clear of the sweets (especially chocolate), as well as other human foods. Leftover bones are also a no-no – they can get lodged and cause severe pain (and often surgery). And be sure to keep the garbages empty to avoid any rummaging by your furry friends!
If Aunt Sally and her five kids are heading over to celebrate, consider giving your furry friend a place of their own – away from the action. Setup a “no-kids-zone” in a room in your house, with soft lighting and a comfortable place for your pets to relax for a bit.
Safety
Christmas Trees: These suckers are heavy! So, be sure to secure it appropriately to avoid potential injury.
Decorations: We know that the glass ornaments can shatter easily, but don’t forget things like tinsel and those hand-crafted ornaments your kids made in school. Cats in particular love the sparkle from tinsel which is dangerous if injested, and that adorable cookie/playdough or macaroni ornament your kids made in school could be devastating to your pup.
Toys: Avoid toys that are easily torn apart – the stuffing and squeekers can be extremely hazardous, as can toys that have strings or other small parts.
Lights: Dogs love to chew…and a wire could shock and/or burn your pup. Be sure to keep wires and cords contained appropriately. Also remember to blow out those Menorah candles…a simple bump of the table by an excited pet could send candles tumbling and start of a fire. Never leave a flame unattended!
Have a safe and happy holiday season, from our AZPetVet family to yours!