SEASONS GREETINGS PET LOVERS

HOLIDAY & WINTER HAZARDS

 It is very important for all pet owner’s to be aware that many of our most common holiday plants are quite poisonous if consumed by a pet, such as mistletoe, poinsettia, holly and lilies.  We recommend that all pet owners refrain from purchasing such plants, unless you are able to keep them in a place that is out of reach from your pet.  Ingestion of even the smallest amounts of some of these plants can cause serious illness.   

Please prevent your pet from drinking water from the Christmas tree stand as it may contain fertilizers and harmful bacteria that can make them seriously ill.  Discouraging your pet and placing a tightly fitted tree skirt may help prevent. 

Tree ornaments/hangers, tinsel, and other festive decorations always have some potential for hazard too.  Small, bright objects seem to invite animals to chew on them and potentially ingest foreign objects/material.  Intestinal obstruction can occur from eating these items.  Cats are very intrigued by strings, thread, ribbons and tinsel, which can cause problems when ingested.  Ornaments made of dough are usually very high in salt and may cause digestive upset and other nervous system problems.  Sometimes ornaments are covered with a harmful coating or paint.  Avoiding string decorations, if possible, or placing them out of paws reach is advisable to prevent ingestion.   

Holiday foods and drinks can also present problems in animals.  Foods that are rich or high in fat may upset an animal’s digestive system causing vomiting, diarrhea, anorexia or abdominal pain and discomfort requiring medical attention.  Chicken and turkey bones can splinter and cause illness and even intestinal obstruction requiring surgical removal.  Chocolates, especially baking and dark chocolate can be very toxic if ingested by dogs and cats.  Coffee grounds, beans and chocolate covered espresso beans and alcoholic drinks can also cause serious illness if ingested.  It is very important to inform, not only your family members, but also your guests against feeding pets these items.  If ingestion should occur please consult a veterinarian immediately.  

When hosting parties it is important to know that your pet may discover food and garbage in places where they usually are not found.  By providing guests with labeled and accessible lid-covered garbage cans you can help minimize the potential exposure, and even make clean up a bit easier.  Kenneling your pet at home or at a boarding facility can also help allow you time to clean up and remove any potential garbage or leftovers that your pet could ingest. 

Pets, especially the young ones, may attempt to chew on electric cords or Christmas tree lights, which can cause serious injury or death and also serves as a fire hazard in the house.   

Hang your stockings with care.  High enough to be unreachable by a pet and after the stockings have been taken down remove the candy or toys that might attract them.   

WINTER HAZARDS

 Antifreeze contains ethylene glycol, which is extremely toxic to pets causing kidney failure and death.  Pets ingest antifreeze due to its sweet taste and even the smallest amounts can cause irreversible kidney damage.  Please make sure that you keep all antifreeze tightly secured and dispose of it properly and away from pets.  If you suspect your pet may have ingested antifreeze have them seen immediately by a veterinarian.   

Keep all ice melting products out of pets reach as these can cause gastrointestinal upset and irritation to the skin and mouth.  

Rat and mouse poisons as just as toxic to your pets.  Make sure that you know where every trap is placed and place them in locations that your pets do not have exposure to.  If you suspect your pet may have ingested these poisons please have them seen immediately by a veterinarian.   

Hypothermia and Frostbite occurs when pets are left outside in cold weather without shelter.  Ears, paws and tails are the most common sites for frostbite to occur.  If it is not safe for you to be outside, then it’s probably not safe for your pet.  Inspect your pet’s shelter to see that it is properly insulated and ready for the colder months.  

Most importantly, make sure that you, your family and your pets enjoy a safe holiday season.  Remember, pet safety is an important part of every celebration. 

If you are concerned that your pet may be ill or has ingested something that could cause them serious harm please give us a call immediately so they can be seen by veterinarian.    During business hours please call 763-560-6906.   After hours please call the Affliliated Emergency Clinic in Coon Rapids at 763-754-9434 or Golden Valley 763-529-6560 

From our family to yours, Happy Holidays!