Caroline Donado
Staff Writer
Christmas season is a dangerous time for pets. There are a multitude of risks from snow salt to turkey bones that can seriously hurt your pup. It is crucial that owners are aware of how their actions will affect their furry friends. Here are some tips to keep your dog healthy and happy this holiday.
When decorating for Christmas, it is best to keep the traditional holiday plants far away from pets. Poinsettia flowers, holly, and mistletoe are all poisonous to dogs. It also may be a good idea to buy a fake tree instead of a real one since pine needles can be sharp and pose the danger of puncturing a dog’s intestines if swallowed. Additionally, it is essential to be mindful while decorating your Christmas tree. Put low hanging ornaments higher up on the branches so your dog will not grab them. Many ornaments have sharp or small pieces that can cause choking. Dogs can also get electrocuted or burned while chewing on light strings.
Many dogs enjoy the snow; however, snow salt is severely irritating to their paws. If using snow melts, opt for a formula that is not salt-based such as Safe Paw. Salt can get lodged in the pads of your dog’s paws and heat up to 170 degrees. It can even lead to gastrointestinal issues and if consumed in large quantities, can cause seizures.
Christmas dinner is also a time filled with risks. When guests arrive, watch that your pet does not slip out the door and get harmed in the street. During and after dinner, refrain from giving your dog table scraps. Bones can be lodged in throats and get stuck in the digestive tract and fatty foods lead to irritation in the pancreas. And, of course, no chocolate--it is toxic to dogs.
Lastly, it is important that owners pay attention to their pet’s stress levels. With all the excitement of the holidays, dogs are prone to get as anxious as their owners. Furthermore, their routine is altered which takes some getting used to on their end. The best thing you can do is to simply spend time with your pup. Dr. Leni Kaplan, a Cornell University veterinarian explained to PressConnects, “Not only will the pets be happier and more relaxed but it provides protected downtime for the owners away from the stressors of the holiday season." Stay calm and your pet will too.
Do not hesitate to get in contact with your local veterinarians immediately if your dog is not well. The Animal Poison Control Center can be reached at (888) 426-4435.
Staff Writer
Christmas season is a dangerous time for pets. There are a multitude of risks from snow salt to turkey bones that can seriously hurt your pup. It is crucial that owners are aware of how their actions will affect their furry friends. Here are some tips to keep your dog healthy and happy this holiday.
When decorating for Christmas, it is best to keep the traditional holiday plants far away from pets. Poinsettia flowers, holly, and mistletoe are all poisonous to dogs. It also may be a good idea to buy a fake tree instead of a real one since pine needles can be sharp and pose the danger of puncturing a dog’s intestines if swallowed. Additionally, it is essential to be mindful while decorating your Christmas tree. Put low hanging ornaments higher up on the branches so your dog will not grab them. Many ornaments have sharp or small pieces that can cause choking. Dogs can also get electrocuted or burned while chewing on light strings.
Many dogs enjoy the snow; however, snow salt is severely irritating to their paws. If using snow melts, opt for a formula that is not salt-based such as Safe Paw. Salt can get lodged in the pads of your dog’s paws and heat up to 170 degrees. It can even lead to gastrointestinal issues and if consumed in large quantities, can cause seizures.
Christmas dinner is also a time filled with risks. When guests arrive, watch that your pet does not slip out the door and get harmed in the street. During and after dinner, refrain from giving your dog table scraps. Bones can be lodged in throats and get stuck in the digestive tract and fatty foods lead to irritation in the pancreas. And, of course, no chocolate--it is toxic to dogs.
Lastly, it is important that owners pay attention to their pet’s stress levels. With all the excitement of the holidays, dogs are prone to get as anxious as their owners. Furthermore, their routine is altered which takes some getting used to on their end. The best thing you can do is to simply spend time with your pup. Dr. Leni Kaplan, a Cornell University veterinarian explained to PressConnects, “Not only will the pets be happier and more relaxed but it provides protected downtime for the owners away from the stressors of the holiday season." Stay calm and your pet will too.
Do not hesitate to get in contact with your local veterinarians immediately if your dog is not well. The Animal Poison Control Center can be reached at (888) 426-4435.
