The Holiday season is upon us. It’s an exciting time of year, but one that poses a unique set of challenges. Here are some tips to ensure that our pets have a safe and happy season.
1) Try not to share Holiday foods with your pets. Traditional staples, such as turkey or goose, contain bones that are brittle and splinter easily. Bone fragments (even those from beef or pork) can pierce or lodge in your pet's esophagus, stomach, or intestines. Other foods, such as chocolates, onions, or garlic, are potentially toxic to your pet. And even if the foods are not toxic, eating a rich meal to which your pet is unaccustomed may cause GI upset that can range from mild diarrhea to life-threatening pancreatitis.
An extra CET chew, Pounce treat or Gentle Snacker would be a much better holiday indulgence for your pet than that last bite of dessert or leftover turkey. And, of course, pets should not be given Halloween candy no matter how cute their costumes might be.
2) Beware holiday decorations. Pets seem to find some holiday decorations--tinsel and tree ornaments, in particular--irresistible. Such objects can be deadly if they become lodged in a pet's stomach or intestine. Cat owners simply should not decorate with tinsel. Christmas ornaments and plants, such as poinsettias or mistletoe, must remain well out of reach.
3) Prepare for travel with your pet. Your pet must have proper ID tags and preferably a micro chip before travel. Check to see whether your airline requires a health certificate for your pet; if so, obtain this certificate well in advance of your flight. Overseas travel usually requires additional steps, that depend on the destination. Take plenty of clean-up items, such as plastic bags, litter box and litter, deodorizer, and grooming brush. Bring a crate, bed, or blanket for quiet time and relaxation. Make sure that your pet's diet remains consistent; where feasible, it is best to bring your pet's regular food with you. Prepare in advance for the climate of your destination.
4) Provide a quiet time for your pet. Even the most social of pets can become stressed by unusual schedules and visiting guests. Like us, our pets need a place to escape from it all on occasion.
On behalf of everyone at KAMC, we wish you a safe and happy Holiday season.
