At many homes the holidays are filled with an abundance of food and fancy decorations.
Unfortunately for pets, these can pose a health risk that could make a pet sick enough to require surgery or worse.
It’s important for pet owners to take some extra precautions to keep four-legged family members happy and healthy this holiday season.
“The holidays can be festive fun for the whole family, including four-legged members. But as pet parents prepare to celebrate, they should also consider the health and safety of their pets,” Dr. Jules Benson, vice president of Veterinary Services for Petplan, said in a statement. “Our pets can become just as stressed out by the holidays as we can. In addition to the tips below, sticking to regular mealtime and exercise schedules will help pets avoid illness – and help prevent any anxiety-induced mischief.”
Whether pet owners are staying at home or traveling afar to enjoy the company of family and friends, Petplan has put together some simple pet precautions to help the season stay bright:
No figgy pudding for fido or fluffy – According to 2011 claims data, Petplan reported a spike in claims for a number of food-related illnesses in the period around Christmas and Hanukkah, including a 90 percent increase in claims for poisoning from food; a 43 percent increase in claims for hemorrhagic gastroenteritis and a 33 percent increase in claims for the treatment of pancreatitis. Pet owners should be sure to keep the latkes and eggnog on the table and remind visiting family and friends to do the same.
Deck the halls with care – Carefully consider the reach of a pet when decking the halls for the holidays. Plants like poinsettias, holly berries and mistletoe, as well as tree water, can lead to illness and upset stomachs. Dangling ornaments and brightly glowing candles draw in curious kitties and canines, while tinsel and ribbon can get caught in pets’ intestines, often requiring surgical removal.
Put on a paw-ty dress – When Jack Frost nips at cold, wet noses, it’s tempting to outfit pets in festive attire, but keep it simple. Forego garments with glitter, tassels or bells, which can end up snarling up pets’ stomachs. Make sure coats and sweaters are neither too tight nor too loose to avoid discomfort, overheating or tangled limbs. If a pet puts up a fight, leave the stress-inducing sweater on the shelf.
Dashing through the snow – If bringing pets over the river and through the woods for an extended stay this season, be sure to bring copies of veterinary records, extra food and plenty of your pet’s medications. Be sure to scope out local vets, including emergency clinics, in case there’s a need. Make sure pets are microchipped and their collar tags have up-to-date contact information, in case they decide to do some visiting of their own.
