Happy Holidays    

   In the midst of all the hustle and bustle of the fast approaching holidays we need to ensure that our pets remain happy, healthy, and safe. With all of the activities of the holiday and interesting smells your pets may nose their way into trouble.  Some of the following are common health hazards that can happen this time of year.

     Having friends and family over this time of year is part of the holidays but help them to understand that giving your pet human food can create distress in your pet. It can cause stomach upset, diarrhea, or worse yet pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas, which usually means hospitalization at the veterinary clinic). To help alleviate any problem you can have treats your pet would normally get, out for your guests to give or for a lower calorie version you can try carrots cut up, an occasional apple slice, or canned green beans. Keep an eye on those candy dishes and be sure to keep them out of your animals reach.

     Chocolate is especially prevalent this time of year with all the homemade goodies. Dogs seem to think chocolate smells and tastes good but do not give them any as it can be very toxic or occasionally even fatal if consumed. Theobromine is the compound in chocolate that is very toxic to pets. Some signs that you may see after only a few hours of ingestion are vomiting, being thirsty, diarrhea, nervousness, excitability, weakness, seizures, and coma. The toxicity of chocolate depends on the type and amount consumed. The following is a list that would be toxic to a 44-pound dog:

• 3 oz. unsweetened cocoa
• 5 oz. Baking chocolate
• 7 oz. semisweet chocolate
• 20 oz. Milk chocolate

If your animal should consume chocolate call the Animal Hospital immediately and let them know how much and what type of chocolate was consumed.

     Shiny, dangly ribbon or tinsel can be very alluring for your cats or dogs. Unfortunately it isn't fun for anyone if they should ingest it, tinsel or ribbon can create a foreign body because it does not pass through the intestines. It can lead to perforations in the intestines, peritonitis, and death if not caught early enough. Vomiting or diarrhea are not normal and should be quickly addressed.

     Poinsettias are not as toxic as once thought but they should still be kept away from pets as they can cause GI upset. The water from your holiday tree can be appealing but should be avoided especially if you put any preservatives in it.

     Keep the trash basket out of your animals reach. Roast string or netting, turkey bones, ham scraps, discarded aluminum foil can lead to abdominal surgery if not avoided.

     Have a safe, happy, and healthy holiday season.