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Thanksgiving Pet Safety

November 15, 2022

Can you believe the holiday season is upon us? We are definitely thankful for our animal companions and the love, comfort, and companionship they provide. However, this can be a dangerous time of year for Fido and Fluffy. You’ll want to take some precautions to keep your furry pal safe over the coming weeks. A Cornelius, NC veterinarian offers some advice on this below.

Food

Food is one of the biggest concerns. Dogs are slightly more at risk here than cats, simply because they’re less finicky. However, some of our feline friends will eat pretty much anything. Some of the dangerous items include grapes, currants, and raisins; garlic and onion; chocolate; caffeine; meat on the bone; avocado; raw dough or yeast; xylitol; and pitted fruits. Ask your vet for more information.

Decorations

Keep your furry friend’s safety in mind as you decorate. Anything small or sharp is a potential choking hazard, and will also be unsafe to ingest. Ropy items, such as garlands and ribbons, are also dangerous to playful pets, as are plastic bags, wrappers, and ties. You’ll also need to be careful with candles, fireplaces, and heaters. Ask your vet for specific advice.

Guests

Guests should never pose a direct threat. However, there’s always a chance of mishaps. These can range from accidentally leaving a gate open to offering your fuzzy buddy a food that isn’t safe. Keep a close eye on your four-legged buddy, and ask guests not to feed or discipline them. Be extra careful with young children, as they may not really understand the do’s and don’ts of interacting with pets.

Trash

The garbage is another concern, particularly for dogs that are large enough to get into it. The trash could contain things like bones, fat trimmings, toothpicks, can lids … the list of dangerous items goes on and on.

Anxiety

Some pets are very calm and friendly, and will see visitors as walking opportunities for treats and belly rubs. Others are much more nervous when visitors come into their domains. If your pet is in the latter category, take precautions to help them feel safe. Tire your furry buddy out with a fun play session before guests arrive. Dogs will also benefit from long walks. This will help Fido burn off his excess energy, leaving him calmer and better behaved.

Happy Thanksgiving! Contact us, your Cornelius, NC pet hospital, anytime!