Visions of Sugar Plums (and Turkey Carcasses) Danced in Their Heads

As with any special occasion, this time of year brings lots of delicious goodies. Eat and be merry, but keep in mind the following when pets are around:

• Rich foods like gravy, turkey skin and other fatty morsels can do a number on your pet’s digestive system. If you do want to give your pet something special on the big night, a small amount of lean, white turkey meat is your safest option.
• Bones, whether cooked or raw should be a no-go. Not only can they get stuck or cause splinters, but they are also a big risk for fracturing teeth.
• Keep an eye on Grandma and Grandpa…. we all know certain guests like to slip their grandpup a little something extra. It might be difficult to stop generous family members altogether, but putting out a bowl of pet-friendly treats might help them stick to things that won’t cause stomach upset for your pet after they leave.

The Stockings Were Hung by the Chimney With Care... Until My Dog Ripped Them Down and Ate Them

A Christmas tree and other holiday decorations really help bring the festive spirit to life, but they can be a source of danger for our furry family members.

• Putting up the tree, and leaving it for a day or two before decorating can aid in having your dog or cat adjust to it. Hopefully they’ll lose interest in it, but if not, check out some creative ways you can pet-proof your tree.
• Whatever you do, if you use a real tree be mindful of the water reservoir - it could be harbouring bacteria or additives that could give your pet a nasty case of diarrhea if they drink it.
• Keeping fragile ornaments to the top of the tree, and avoid ornaments that are edible, or string-like decorations such as tinsel which are prone to causing intestinal obstructions for cats in particular.
• Keep your pets away from Holly and Mistletoe. Both can be toxic, causing stomach upset like vomiting and diarrhea. Even pine needles can cause problems because they are not digestible.

On Comet! On Cupid! On Fluffy and Fido!

If you haven’t already, it’s time to make sure your pet is up to date on their vaccinations, especially if you’re going to be mobile over the holidays. If you plan on leaving your pet in a kennel, or will be travelling across the border with them, a quick call to your veterinary care provider will make sure you’re on the right track . Also keep in mind that if your pet suffers from motion sickness, your veterinarian may be able to prescribe medication that will help everyone get to their destination comfortably.

Happy Holidays to All, and to All a Cat-Astrophe Free Night

Mike & Connie

The Treatwell Team