Dogs love being part of family celebrations and it can make the festivities even more memorable having them be part of it. But there are things that we have in our homes during this time of the year that can be a potential danger to their health. In this article, I will share seven common potential hazards so that you can keep them safe during this bountiful and festive holiday season. 1. Christmas TreesIf you have a fresh tree be careful of fallen needles. They can be toxic to dogs if ingested, can cause gut obstructions and hurt their paws. The water that the tree is standing in can also be harmful as it may contain needles, pine sap and fertilizer or other additives that can be toxic to dogs. 2. Poisonous PlantsDuring the holidays there are some specific plants that we have adorning our homes such as lilies, poinsettias, holly, and mistletoe. Though they look beautiful, they are all toxic to dogs so make sure that they are out of their reach. 3. DecorationsSome of the materials that decorations are made from can be toxic to dogs, but also if ingested they can cause blockages. Just ensure that they are out of the reach of your dog. 4. Electric CordsWe all have these around the inside and outside of our homes at this time of the year with holiday lights, holiday inflatables and other Christmas decorations. Ensure to supervise your dog around these wires as they can become entangled in them easily. They could also choke or if they chew on them, give them a shock or worse, so supervise them well around these items. 5. CandlesIf possible, opt for the LED flickering candles which look equally as effective. It reduces the risk of a rambunctious pup or that strong wagging tail knocking over a lit candle. 6. Holiday Garland, Tinsel, and RibbonThese are beautiful on the tree or adorning our bannisters in the home, but if ingested by a dog can cause gut obstructions so do your best to keep them out of reach of your furry family members. 7. Holiday Food ItemsWe all have our favorite treats and sinful delectables during the holidays and we can and should enjoy them but keep in mind that some of these can be harmful to your dog as follows:
It's a Wrap!When it comes to gifts don’t forget to have a few under the tree for your four-legged family member! And don't neglect the opportunity to ensure that your dog gets plenty of exercise. Even on that special day get your dog out for some fresh air, preferably a nice long sniffy walk where they can take in all the “pee” mail and other wonderful smells in the environment and come back home feeling relaxed and calm before your guests arrive. It’s also a good idea to have a “safe space“ for your dog such as a room, a dog pen or crate for them to relax. There is a lot of activity and noise that they are not always accustomed to and for some dogs can be quite overwhelming. That safe space can make all the difference allowing them to take time out and have some rest. In case of an emergency, be proactive in knowing the number and address details of the nearest 24/7 emergency clinic. Happy Holidays everyone and best wishes for a Happy, Healthy, and Safe New Year!
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June 2024
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