Holiday Health Hazards

     Holiday celebrations are a wonderful time for family and friends that we cherish, including our four legged friends.  This time of year however also brings potential dangers to the pets in our homes.  This is a small summary of holiday health hazards and how to avoid them.  For more in depth information or if your pet is having a health issue related to a holiday hazard contact your veterinarian.

Christmas tree - if your tree is displayed in a room that your dog has access to there are several precautions we recommend taking.  If your dog or dogs are active and playful use wire or string to secure the top section of your tree to a nearby wall in order to prevent tipping.  Never hang breakable or edible ornaments on the bottom area where they will tempt your best friend.  If your tree is fresh cut and placed in a tree holder with water do not let your dog drink from this water source as it will contain pine sap which may cause stomach upset.

Tinsel - is beautiful on the tree or in holiday decorations.  It is also can be very attractive to your dog or cat but if ingested it can ball up in the stomach causing digestive problems.  If passed through into the intestinal tract it can  also wrap around the intestine, its razor sharp edges cutting tissue along the way.  Many times it is unable to pass through and becomes a surgical problem.

Electrical cords - this hazard is not exclusive to the holidays but typically the additional lights and decorations of the season mean more cords than usual.  If your dog is curious or loves to chew the end result can be tragic.  Whenever possible cords should be bundled out of your dogs range.

Batteries - contain corrosive materials and can cause ulcerations of the mouth, tongue and gastro intestinal tract if left where a curious dog might chew them.

Alcohol - a human favorite that is not at all good for pets.  Partially filled glasses should never be left at low enough levels where your pet could reach them and drink.  Sadly, many people after consuming enough themselves, find it funny to offer it to pets as well.  They do not metabolize it or enjoy it the same way we do.  It can cause lethargy, even coma, and in some cases death due to respiratory failure.   If your pet is acting oddly and you believe alcohol may be a factor contact animal poison control ( available 24/7 for a fee, see number listed below )  or your veterinarian for advice.

Food - the rich holiday treats we all enjoy are typically high in fat, sugar or both which can be very foreign and upsetting to your pets stomach causing gastroenteritis.  Serious cases may require veterinary intervention.  Chocolate toxicity is also a very real danger to any dog that ingests a large amount of chocolate.  Symptoms include vomitting, diarrhea, hyperactivity, increased thirst and urination, increased heart rate and sometimes seizures.   If you find your dog has gotten into the holiday candy bowl or baking chocolate  contact poison control or your veterinarian immediately.

Plants - holly, mistletoe and poinsettia plants are all toxic if ingested.  Irritation of the mouth and stomach lining, lethargy, stomach upset resulting in vomiting or diarrhea can be the result.  Once again it would be recommended to contact your veterinarian for advice or touch base with poison control.

Animal Poison Control - 888-426-4435 - is open 24/7.  A fee of $55.00 is charged to your credit card.  A small price to pay for access to their expertise, knowledge and database.  Having used them several times ourselves we cannot recommend them enough.