Holiday Pet Care Tips

Check out our holiday tips for your pets!

Halloween Safety Tips

Witches, Bats and Scaredy Cats

Provided by The American Humane Association

Halloween is one of the best holidays for kids, but it can be hard on pets if you don't take some precautions.

The best way to keep your pet safe is to keep it at home.  Wandering pets can be spooked by noisy groups of small ghouls and goblins and might end up running too far from home to find their way back.

Keep pets confined away from the door.  You may open the door many times during Halloween evening, providing tempting opportunities for Fido or Fluffy to slip through your legs and outside, unescorted.  Pets are calmer, too, if kept away from the door.  Dogs, in particular, may resent the endless intrusions of strangers into their territory and become very anxious, which could lead to growling at the the children or worse.

If you have a black cat, you have a special problem.  The mythology about black cats being related to witches can lead strange people to do strange things to them.  Even kids who mean no harm may yell when they see a black cat, scaring the cat much more than the cat is scaring them.

If you find yourself with a house full of candy on Halloween, don't feel you must share it with your pet.  Be particularly careful about letting dogs chow down on chocolate.  Chocolate contains a stimulant called theobromine, which can make dogs very ill and could even cause death if consumed in enough quantity.  If you want to treat the pets, stock up on dog biscuits or catnip toys--treats with no tricks attached.

Halloween:  No Treat for Pets

Provided by The Humane Society of the United States

Halloween can be a ghoulish time for pets.  While the pint-sized witches and goblins of the neighborhood get all the treats, our four-legged friends face mostly tricks.  Teh constant chime of the doorbell, the playful shouts of "trick or treat," and the parade of strange faces can seem like an all-too-real scare for pets.

Then, of course, there are the real horrors committed against pets, mostly cats, every Halloween:  stolen animals, tortured animals, even animals who are killed in the name of superstitions long since discredited in modern societies.

But all companion animals can feel threatened on Halloween, even in the relative safety of their own home.

"Dogs and cats rely on daily routine," says Nancy Peterson, an Issues Specialist with The Humane Society of the United States.  "When that routine is disrupted by lots of noise and commotion, like trick-or-treaters ringing the doorbell or lots of strangers in unusual clothes in their house, pets can become frightened or agitated.  It's best to keep pets at a safe distance from the festivities."

By keeping pets away from Halloween activities, preferably in an enclosed room with a toy, music or the TV playing, it not only prevents the possibility of a dog bolting out the constantly opening door, but it helps to calm dogs and cats who might feel frightened by noisy costumed children.  All pets should have ID tags on as well, just in case a pet does get lost during the holidya commotion.

Because dogs can be so easily spooked by children in costumes, the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, Los Angeles (SPCA LA) does not bring dogs into their adoption center at a local mall.  "The center's neighboring store is for kids, and on Halloween, there is often a lot of commotion and children in costumes, which scares the dogs," says Laura Saunders, SPCA LA's Director of Companion Animal Services.

While Halloween can be fun and festive, tjere's also a darker side to the holiday--the side filled with pranks and abuse.  Every Halloween season, numerous cases of animal abuse surface.  Black cats are especially susceptible because of the stigma and folklore that surrounds them.  Because of these potential dangers, the SPCA LA bans black cat adoptions from October 24-November 1.  Families wanting to adopt a black cat during that time can go through the adoption process and be approved but will have to wait until November 2 to take their kitty home.  So far, the policy hasn't caused any problems.

"People have been pretty supportive of our policy," Saunders said.  "They know the reasons behind it--that it's for the safety of the cat--and are willing to wait to get their cat."

While she believes abuse to animals does occur on Halloween, Saunders said SPCA LA may not necessarily get a call about it that day.  "We still believe it goes on during Halloween, but we also get calls throughout the year for animal sacrifice and cruelty, not just on Halloween, so that makes it difficult to gauge the amount of it happening that particular day."

There is also the possibility of cats being stolen for pranks or abuse during Halloween.  For that reason, people should make sure their cats are safe indoors.  While The HSUS and SPCA LA recommend people always keep their cats safely confined, those who don't heed this advice need to take extra precautions around Halloween.  The SPCA LA recommends keeping cats indoors for two to four weeks before Halloween to prevent any problems.

"We see an increase in the number of people reporting stolen or lost cats in the weeks leading up to Halloween," says SPCA LA's Saunders.  "These cats can be killed or harmed in some way, so it is really important people who normally let their cats outdoors keep them inside around Halloween."

If people follow these suggestions, Halloween can be a fun and entertaining holiday for both people and their pets.

"Resist the urge to include your pet in your Halloween activities, and everyone can enjoy the holiday," says The HSUS's Peterson.

Safety Tips for Pet Owners

Christmas Holiday Tips

Keeping the Holidays Happy and Safe

By Marty Smith, DVM and Holly Frisby, DVM, MS

Food--Related Items

Holiday foods we enjoy cooking and eating can be a problem for your pet.

Rich, fatty foods, like gravy or grease, can cause problems ranging from stomach upsets to pancreatitis, which is an inflammation of the pancreas resulting in pain, vomiting and dehydration.  Dogs with this serious condition often require hospitalization for treatment.

Alcohol can cause serious intoxications in pets, and many dogs are attracted to it.  Every year, hundreds of dogs die after a single bout of alcohol consumption.  Clean up glasses after holiday parties.  Dogs are often attracted by the sweet taste of drinks, especially eggnog.

Chocolate, coffee and tea all contain dangerous components called xanthines, which cause nervous system or urinary system damage and heart muscle stimulation.  Chocolate, with theobromine, is especially a problem because pets love its flavor.  Problems from ingestion range from diarrhea to seizures and death.  Unsweetened baking chocolate and dark chocolate are the worst culprits, but all chocolate, fudge and other candy should be placed out of your dog's reach.

Uncooked meat, fish and poultry can contain disease-causing bacteria, such as E. coli, and parasites such as Toxoplasma gondii.  These uncooked foods should not be given to your pet.  For your own health, as well as your dog's, wash utensils that have been in contact with raw meat, and cook thoroughly.

Bones from fish, meat or poultry can also cause problems if swallowed.  Even small bones can splinter causing lacerations (tearing) throughout the intestinal tract.  So no matter how big or how little they are, be sure to keep bones (other than those that are specially sterilized and treated) away from your dog.  Rawhides, Kong toys and hardened, sterilized bones would be better alternatives.

Remember, dogs have an exceptional sense of smell--juices on plastic or aluminum foil left on countertops are very tempting.  If ingested, the plastic of foil can cause choking or intestinal obsruction.

Meat-soaked strings from rump roasts are also enticing.  Ingestion can cause a surgical emergency called a "linear string foreign body" in the intestines.

To be safe, put away food immediately and pet-proof your garbage.  Garbage contains all kinds of other hazards for your dog such as plastic wrap and bags, six-pack beverage holders that could cause stangulation, fat trimmings, bones and pieces of ribbon or tinsel.

Feed your pet(s) before a party, so they will not be so apt to beg or steal food.

Poisonous Plants

We all like making our homes more festive for the holidays.  We enjoy the green foliage and colorful flowers of plants.  Unfortunately, many of the plants we have in our homes during the holidays can be poisonous to pets.  If ingested, holly causes stomach upset and can be potentially fatal to both dogs and cats.  Mistletoe upsets stomachs and can cause heart collapse.  Poinsettias also can cause stomach upset.  Hibiscus causes diarrhea.  So when you brighten up your home, place these plants well out of your pet's reach, or use imitation holiday plants.

Decorations and Wrapping

All that glitters is not gold--it could be dangerous for your pet.

Ribbons, yarn and string can cause intestinal obstruction and bunching of the intestine along the length of the string.  These conditions require surgery and can be fatal.  Ribbons around your dog's neck may be cute, but they can also be dangerous.

Adhesives and glues can be toxic and are often attractive to animals.

Potpourri contains oils that can be toxic to pets if eaten.  We may not think of eating it, but some curious dogs may.

Candles can cause burns and fires.  Never leave lighted candles unattended or within reach of your pet.

Few things are more tempting to a playful dog than a game of tug.  This is not a good game; however, to play with the end of  a tablecloth.  Try to keep items such as tablecloths, table runners, etc. from hanging too low to the floor and tempting happy dogs running by to grab and end and pull!

Gifts Under the Tree

Rawhide or other edible items left under the tree can be very tempting.  And remember that companies often package rawhide or other pet gifts wrapped in ribbon.  Make sure to remove ribbons or ties before you present gifts to your dog.  If played with and swallowed, yarn, ribbon or string on gifts can cause intestinal obstruction, requiring surgery.

Perfumes and aftershaves contain ethanol (alcohol), and perfume also contains essential oils, which can be very toxic to pets if ingested.

Batteries for toys or other gifts cna be toxic and cause intestinal obstruction.  Keep in a safe place until they are ready to be inserted in the gift.

Christmas Trees

O Christmas tree, O Christmas tree, how careful we must be!  Christmas trees and their decorations can create hazards for pets.

Place Christmas trees in a stable stand, and attach it securely to a window or a wall.  We have known others who have hung their tree from the ceiling!  Use a Scat Mat to keep pets away, make sure your dog is always supervised when in a room with a tree.

Tree needles can be toxic and cause stomach irritation.  Be sure your pet is not chewing on branches or eating fallen needles.  Tinsel's shininess is attractive.  When eaten, it can cause blockages, which often require surgery to remove.  Leave it off the tree altogether.

Angel hair, flocking and artificial snow are mildly toxic.  In consumed in larger amounts; however, they could cause blockage of the intestine.  Try decorating with something less likely to cause a problem.

Chewing on electrical cords can cause problems ranging from burned mouths, to electrical shock to death by electrocution.  Unplug decorative lights when you are not there, use Pet-Proof Extension Cords,  or spray cords with a product such as Bitter Apple or Chew Stop.

Dogs will often play with glass ornaments as if they were balls, and serious oral lacerations can result.  Sharp ornament hooks can get imbedded in pet's mouths.  Place ornaments that are shiny, or could be swallowed or broken, high up on your tree.  Larger, less intriguing ornaments can go near the bottom.

Decorating trees with food is asking for problems.  Candy canes and gingerbread people can be as enticing to your pet as they are to children.  We know of one diabetic dog who ran into some problems with regulating her disease because she was stealing candy canes off of the tree.  Popcorn, raisin or cranberry garlands are beautiful but can cause an obstruction when eaten, requiring surgery.

Because tree preservatives are often sugar-based (and inviting to dogs) and because the water stands so long, the water in the tree stand often harbors potentially harmful bacteria.

Visitors

Some pets love visitors and behave very well.  Others may be fearful or aggressive.  Some puppies may urinate when meeting people.  Still, others may be too full of holiday cheer and over-exuberant.  Plan for how your dog will react to visitors.

A quiet room, away from the commotion, with water and food available, will help fearful dogs be more comfortable.

Brushing up on obedience training before the holidays may help a pet who has become a little rusty.  Be sure to inform your visitors of any household "rules" or problem behaviors concerning your pets (e.g. sneaking out the door, jumping up on the couch, getting food from the table, etc.).

For dogs who may not behave or could be aggressive, placing them in a separate room, using pet gates or having them stay at a friend's house during a party may be necessary.  Sometimes boarding a dog in a kennel may be the safest alternative.

Cleaning products such as disinfectants get a lot of use during the holidays as we spiff  up our homes for visitors.  Remember, many of these products can be toxic to your pet.

When inviting visitors, make sure they know you have a pet.  If these people have allergies, you could help them by using a product such as Allerpet to decrease the dander in the house.

If you are traveling during the holidays and need to leave your pet(s) at home, start to make accommodations for dog(s) early.  Many boarding facilities fill up very fast.  Responsible pet sitters are a good alternative.  If they are unfamiliar with your house or pet(s) have them cover over and get acquainted before you leave.

New Pets

New pets may not be the best holiday gifts.  Do not consider giving an animal as a gift unless you are sure the person wants one.  It may be better to give a gift certificate so the person can choose his or her own pet after the holidays.

Similarly, if thinking aobut getting a new pet for yourself, remember pets need routine and a time to bond with you.  With its noise, commotion and special hazards, the holiday season is anything but routine.  Think about getting your new pet after the holidays.  We guarantee you will not have and after-holiday let down!

Why not make the holidays more enjoyable for homeless pets?  Contact your local animal shelter to see if you can donate food, kitty litter, toys or time.

Pet Gifts and Treats

When choosing a holiday gift for your special friend, be sure it is safe--no small pieces that could come off and be swallowed.  Choose healthy holiday treats for your dog and give them in moderation.

With all of the festivities, do not forget to relax and spend some quality time with your pet.  Your dog will think that is the best gift of all.

Health Tips to Help Make the Season Bright for Pets

"We see an increased number of calls related to pet poisoning during the time between Thanksgiving and New Year's," says Dr. Steven Hansen, DVM, Director of the ASPCA Animal Poision Control Center (APCC).  Here's one holiday list you can check twice to help keep the furry members of your family happy and healthy:

• Season's eatings shouldn't include holiday greenery such as holly, mistletoe, lilies and amaryllis.  While commonly used to deck the halls, they can make your pet sick if ingested.
• Look before you light.  Lit candles produce fumes that can be harmful to birds if inhaled.  And don't forget , your pet's  wagging tail can easily knock over a burning candle.  Liquid potpourri is also dangerous to pets, who could ingest it from decorative bowls and simmering pots.
• Whoa, Christmas tree!  Their branches definitely delight pets, who've been known to chew on them and whatever decorations may be hanging from them.  Place small, breakable ornaments up high, and keep tinsel and garland out of your pet's reach, as these can get caught in his throat.  And make sure that pine needles, which can be toxic, don't get eaten.
• Keep batteries loose and in packages away from pets.  They contain corrosives that can cause ulceration in your animal companion's mouth, tongue and gastrointestinal tract if bitten or swallowed.
• Shy animals can get stressed with the hustle and bustle of holiday guests, so make sure there's a quiet room to which your pets can retreat.

If you suspect you pet has gotten into a potentially poisonous substance, call your veterinarian of the APCC's Emergency Hotline at 1.888.4.ANI.HELP for round-the-clock telephone assistance.  For more information on poison prevention, visit the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center online.

Managing Your Dog's Holiday-Time Stress

Supplied by Bark Busters

The holidays are a busy time for many households. Friends and family come and go, deliveries are made to the door, delicious smells emanate from the kitchen, and a general happy hubbub means that something special is happening. Among those affected by these changes is the family dog.

The following are some tips to help calm your dog and keep everyone in the home safe during the active holiday season.

Children Visitors
Dogs that live in a household with no children may not be comfortable when kids come to visit. The chaos created by youngsters like grandchildren will inherently raise the energy level in the house, causing the dog to worry or stress. Here are some ways to control such situations if your dog does not cope well with children.

• Always supervise kids (especially very young children) and dogs when they are alone together. This is when most dog bites to children occur.

• With a very young child, parents must be vigilant and monitor their tot's interactions with the dog. Parents should teach children of all ages to treat dogs with respect and gentleness.

• Never invite a child to feed the dog by hand--this teaches the dog it is acceptable to take any food from a child. Because of a child's small size, the dog may view her as an equal and thus may try to take advantage of the situation.

Boundaries and Security
Dogs need to have their own "home," a place where they feel secure and calm. If your dog doesn't already have a place of his own, create one for him. 

• A crate or pet carrier provides a natural safe haven for your dog. Keep his crate or dog pillow in a quiet area of the home, and direct your dog to go there when you need to set boundaries. While he may not like being separated from you, he will still feel secure.

• If your dog begins to bark or nip at visitors, remove him from the area and keep him in his safe place until your guests have gone.

• Keep the dog out of certain rooms where he can get underfoot. For example, training your dog to stay out of the kitchen--where most household accidents occur--is a good safety measure. It also helps to prevent your dog from begging for food.

• If you travel during the holidays, taking his crate/carrier will help your dog feel more relaxed, since "home" is wherever he finds you and his familiar bed.

Elderly Dogs
Elderly dogs may not enjoy the extra hustle and bustle of the holiday season. Be mindful of keeping your older dog comfortable when his routine is disrupted.

• If your elderly dog gets cranky around visitors, simply take him to his special quiet place where he won't be bothered and can feel secure.

• Remind children to be respectful of your older dog. Always provide supervision when dogs and kids are together.

Front Door Behaviors
A knock on the door can be a stimulating event for a dog, whether he sees it as fun or alarming. It is natural for him to want to know who the visitors are to determine if they are friendly or not. However, a dog that explodes with excitement at the sound of the doorbell is both annoying and unsafe--he may dash out the door and run into harm's way, he may get underfoot and become a trip hazard, he may knock people over, or he may become aggressive to the visitor.

• To help your dog be calmer, exercise him prior to the arrival of guests. After thirty minutes of walking or playing, your dog will more likely be relaxed or want to nap.

• As a general rule, don't allow the family dog to greet unfamiliar guests because commotion and unusual circumstances can cause stress for dogs.

• Consider putting your dog on a leash as guests arrive to maintain better control of him.

• Teach your dog to sit and stay on command. When the doorbell rings, put him in a sit-stay and do not open the door until he calms down.

• If your dog gets overly excited with arriving visitors, remove him from the scene ahead of time. Place him in his crate in a quiet room, and then let him join the party later.

By anticipating how your dog may react to new activities and visitors, you can help ensure that everyone--both two-and four-legged--has a fun and safe holiday season.

Keep the Holiday Season Fun and Safe for Your Dog

Supplied by Bark Busters

Holiday foods can be harmful!

• Many holiday foods are harmful or even toxic to canines. These include fatty or spicy foods, bread dough, fresh herbs, alcoholic beverages, and sweets of all kinds--especially those with chocolate or xylitol, an artificial sweetener.

• Particularly dangerous are cooked poultry bones. Cooked bones easily splinter, and the bone shards can cause choking or get stuck in your dog's gums. Instead, give "dog bones" specifically designed for dogs to chew. Ask your veterinarian for suggestions.

• Discourage your dog from foraging in the garbage--secure lids on all trash cans.

• It's natural that you'd want to share holiday treats with your dog. While a little taste of turkey or sweet potatoes can make your dog happy, don't overdo it--too much of a good thing can make him sick.