Food, decorations and other winter items cause illness and injury to thousands of pets every year. Keep holiday celebrations fun for everyone by following these tips:

Keep poisonous foods out of reach. Some common holiday foods we enjoy are toxic to dogs and cats. Never allow them access to chocolate, raisins, grapes, bones from poultry, alcohol in any form, fatty foods, or candy and gum containing xylitol. Bones can splinter and puncture internal organs, fatty foods can cause acute pancreatitis. Also, be sure your guests keep their human medications secure.

Prevent access to holiday decorations. Many visits to emergency clinics during the holidays are due to burns ad electrocution from electrical cords, candles, and fireplaces, or poisoning from chrysanthemums, poinsettias, mistletoe and holly, which can cause serious illness or death. Pets can choke on Christmas tree lights, ornaments, tinsel and ribbons, and they can also become tangled in the intestines. The batteries used in toys and electronics can cause obstruction and burns to the esophagus. 

Beware of outdoor hazards. Items to keep out of reach are ice melt products, wiper fluids, and anti-freeze. Ingestion can lead to kidney failure and death for cats and dogs. Don't let pets stay outdoors in cold temperatures for more than a few minutes. Frostbite and hypothermia can develop quickly!

Remember that celebrations that are fun for your family may be traumatic for pets due to unfamiliar guests and noises. Provide a quiet place where pets can get away from the festivities. Lastly, if you see any signs of illness give us a call right away!