Holiday Pet Proofing Tips For Pet Parents In La Crosse

The holidays are here, and many pet owners in La Crosse and all over the world plan to include their animals in celebrations. Many pets enjoy the festivities and the attention they receive. However, there are some precautions pet owners should take to ensure that their animals stay safe and healthy during this time of year.

 

Beware Of Seasonal Plants And Decorations

Many people like to decorate their homes for the holidays. The decorations can be fun and festive, but they may also be dangerous for pets. Here are some things to watch out for:

Christmas Tree: Keep the Christmas tree secured and away from pets because they may drink the water in it, and that water could contain fertilizers that cause stomach upset. In addition, bacteria grow in stagnant tree water, so drinking from such a source could make your pet ill.

Holly and Mistletoe: Holly and mistletoe are among the most dangerous plants for pets because of their high toxicity. Holly can make our pets vomit, have diarrhea, drool excessively or feel abdominal pain. In addition, the plant's thorns are dangerous to your pet's eyes and skin.

Tinsel: Our furry companions are wild about anything shiny, and tinsel is no exception. However, the small pieces of metal that makeup tinsel are dangerous to pets and can cause internal damage if swallowed.

 

Holiday Food Hazards To Look Out For

Many people like to celebrate the holidays with a special treat or two. Unfortunately, some of these tasty treats can be dangerous for our pets because they contain toxic ingredients. Here are some of the most common holiday food hazards for pets. 

 

Sweets: Holiday food is often a major attraction for pets. However, sugary treats can be dangerous for our pets and make them sick. Keep candy and other sweets out of reach or hidden because they could contain chocolate, which can be toxic to dogs.

 

Leftover food: Turkey bones, fatty and spicy food should not be fed to your pet. Turkey bones can be especially harmful to your pet because they can splinter and become lodged in the throat and intestines. Fatty, greasy foods can cause pancreatitis in dogs, while spicy foods can cause an upset stomach.

 

Onions, chives and garlic: This ingredient is most common in baked goods, stuffing and our favourite mashed potatoes. But no matter what form it takes, fresh or powdered, it can cause damage to the pet's blood cells if ingested.

 

Grapes and Raisins: Some dogs can suffer from rapid kidney failure if they eat even small amounts of these fruits. Most fruit cakes contain grapes and raisins. As a result, pet owners should not give their animals treats made with these ingredients.

 

These tips will keep your pet safe and healthy during the holiday season and save you money on vet bills.

 

Overfeeding: Like humans, our pets can put on extra holiday weight. So, purchase some healthy dog biscuits, or cat treats instead of giving your animal companion leftovers this Thanksgiving or Christmas. Then, cut back on the amount of their regular meal to accommodate treats they will be getting throughout the day.

 

Let Pet Me Scratch Me La Crosse Take Care Of Your Pet This Festive Season!

When you're leaving town for the holidays and can't take your canine companion with you, we'll be happy to care for him or her while you are away. Our facility is safe and comfortable, with caring staff to make your pet feel right at home. 

Need a safe and fun place for your pet to stay during the holidays? Book your pet's boarding appointment now before we book up!