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Tis the Season
The holiday season can be a time for joyous celebration, but it can also be a time of stress for pets. With company in and out of the house, gifts being opened and owners often traveling, it is hard for some dogs and cats to not feel the stress of the holiday hustle. Here are some helpful tips to keep in mind:
Keep the tree safe:
- Christmas trees can be very tempting for cats and dogs with their sparkly lights and ornaments. Consider the use of temporary gates as a border around the tree.
- Anchor the tree if necessary to keep those climbing kitties from pulling it down.
- Beware of tree water consumption. Standing water under live trees can harbor bacteria and harmful chemicals through tree life supplements. Consider the use of a cover for the base of live tree stands to keep pets from drinking or small curious kittens from falling into the water.
- Supervision around the tree is recommended.
- Giftwrap with caution: gift attachments and embellishments can be tempting foreign bodies for some dogs. Avoid the temptation by leaving off gifts or adding at the last minute.
- Ensure electrical cords are out of reach for both cats and dogs.
Keep routine:
- Pets (like children) find routine and predictability comforting. Help keep bedtimes and mealtimes consistent for your pets.
- Kennel training is a safe way to keep dogs out of the kitchen while meals are being prepared and when owners are busy and can't supervise.
- Potty breaks before company helps empty bladders! It is hard for pets to leave fun guests to go outside to use the bathroom.
- Remind guests of special off limit places for pets to keep rules consistent.
Keep harmful holiday plants away from pets:
Keep sweets out of reach:
- Sweets are fun to share but not for cats and dogs. Keep chocolate and other candies out of reach.
- Sugar-free foods often contain Birch sugar or Xylitol for sweeteners and are toxic for dogs.
If traveling with your pet:
- Have your pet's medications packed safely out of reach.
- Take your veterinarian's information with you.
- Keep your pet on their normal routine as much as possible.
- Stick to your pet's normal diet to avoid gastric upset.
- Carry a first-aid kit with you with items approved by your veterinarian.
If hosting a holiday party:
- Keep your pet's microchip information updated should they get out when the door opens.
- If your pet is nervous around guests, consider talking to your veterinarian ahead of time about behavioral medications or supplementation.
- Have a safe place for your pet to retreat to when they are feeling overwhelmed or overstimulated.
No dumpster diving:
- When the trash is full, be sure to remove promptly out of the house and place in an appropriate trash receptacle.
- Gift trash should be promptly discarded. Be cautious of gift packaging, twisty-ties and batteries laying around.
Wellsville Animal Hospital wishes you and your family a Happy Holiday Season!
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