GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — November, December and the beginning of January are filled with holiday merriment, but an unexpected trip to the veterinary hospital can instantly spoil the cheer. There are many seasonal dangers for pets, including the consumption of toxic foods and decorations that can devastate a holiday celebration.
Danger in decking the halls from chocolate and turkey bones to tinsel and toys, veterinarians at BluePearl Specialty and Emergency Pet Hospital have treated dozens of dogs and cats who have gotten into holiday-related food and items. In fact, BluePearl, which has more than 80 hospitals in 25 states across the U.S., sees an approximate 69% increase in chocolate-related emergency visits every Christmas Eve.
Around this time every year, our hospitals see an influx in foreign body, toxicity, pancreatitis, feline lower urinate tract disease and urethral obstruction cases,” said Dr. Neil Sinha.
Follow these expert tips to ensure a smooth and safe holiday season for your pets—and your guests:
- Keep the food away. While chocolate is a big part of the holidays for many people, it is toxic to dogs and cats. Be sure to keep chocolate, along with any other sweets and baked goods containing chocolate, away from pets. Also, be mindful of table scraps, including turkey, turkey skin, gravy, and meat fat. Even in small doses, these foods can cause a life-threatening condition in pets called pancreatitis.
- Be mindful of decorations (and carefully dispose gift wrapping). Christmas trees, electric lights, water additives, ornaments, candles, tinsel, and potpourris all pose a threat to pets’ health during the holidays. If an ornament, tinsel, or other holiday decoration is consumed, it can cause intestinal blockages that may require surgery. Electric lights and candles can cause fires, pet burns (if chewed), or worse. Never leave an animal alone with an exposed flame. Gift wrappings should also be cleared away, as sparkly ribbon or glittered bows can be tempting for your pet to play with or eat.
- Designate a comfortable, quiet place inside for pets to retreat. Pets can become emotionally distressed with the commotion that accompanies a holiday gathering, so make sure to designate a private room or crate somewhere quiet. If a room or crate is not available, be especially mindful of the front door. As friends and family come and go, it is easy for pets to make a break for it out the door and become lost. Consider getting your pets microchipped.
- If traveling, pack for the pet. Remember to bring pet food, fresh water, medications, copies of their medical records, their ID tag, veterinarian information, a crate, bed/blanket, and toys. If traveling in a vehicle, safely restrain your pet using a secure harness or a carrier, placed away from airbags. Never leave your pet alone in the car or transport your pet in the bed of a truck.
- Plan ahead. Scope out 24/7 emergency veterinary hospitals along your travel route before there’s an emergency. Keep a digital and hardcopy list of the numbers to these hospitals in case of emergencies. You want to include:
- Your primary veterinarian’s phone number
- 24/7 emergency veterinary hospitals along the travel route—phone numbers and addresses 3. The phone number to the ASPCA Poison Control Hotline: 1-888-426-4435 (fees may apply)
The Bottom Line
It is important to remember that, as part of the family, it is a pet owner’s responsibility to protect pets from the harms that may come along during this festive season,” Dr. Snell explained.
Keeping pets safe this holiday season may seem straightforward, but it’s best to be proactive and plan ahead. While you may know that Fido cannot have Turkey bones, other houseguests may not. Make sure guests are aware of the “cans” and “can’ts” to ensure a safe and happy holiday.
BluePearl Pet Hospitals provide 24/7 emergency medical care for pets–including holidays–in most locations.
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