Holiday Hazards for Dogs

The holiday season is officially here! You may be quite busy with cooking, shopping, and decorating as you prepare for seasonal events. Don’t forget about your dog! This special time of year can be quite dangerous for Man’s Best Friend! Read on as a local Thorold, ON vet lists some holiday hazards for Fido.

Food is a big part of many holiday celebrations. Unfortunately, many of our favorite seasonal foods are toxic to Fido. No matter how much your pet begs, don’t let him have anything seasoned with garlic, onions, or scallions. Other foods on the no-no list include raw meat, dough, or yeast; meat on the bone; chocolate; caffeine; nuts; pitted fruits, especially avocado; grapes, currants, and raisins; and anything that contains xylitol. If you want to give your furry pal a special treat, just offer him some plain, cooked meat, with the bones, skin, and fat removed.

Dogs are pretty opportunistic when it comes to food. Fido has been known to go through the trash in search of leftovers. Use a trashcan with a secure lid, in case your pup gets any bright ideas. The trash could contain bones, skewers, toothpicks, can lids, tin foil, fat trimmings, and other dangerous items.

Dogs are very smart, but they don’t always recognize potential dangers. Many small decorative pieces, such as manger sets, are serious choking hazards for pets. Ornament hooks, fragile glass ornaments, ribbon, tinsel, and pine needles (both real and artificial) are also dangerous. Keep these things in spots Fido can’t reach. Also, if you get a real tree, cover the water bowl, so he can’t drink it. It could contain residue from sap, fertilizers, and pesticides, all of which are toxic to dogs.

Poinsettias, holly, and mistletoe are all toxic to dogs. Keep these things in spots your canine buddy can’t get to. Or, better yet, use fake ones.

Many people like the warm, cozy glow of candles. Just be sure to keep candles in high, secure spots, well out of paws’ reach. We recommend using thick candleholders as well. You’ll also want to be careful if you have a fireplace. Use a protective grate, so your furry friend doesn’t get singed.

Happy Holidays! Please do not hesitate to contact us, your local Thorold, ON vet hospital, for all of your pet’s veterinary care needs. We’re here to help!