Burr santa

Tis the season for family, food, and festivities.  It’s also when furry family members can be injured by frolicking in the proverbial forbidden fruit.  To make things merrier, Croton Animal Hospital offers some tips on reducing the holiday stress on your pets.

Mistletoe and holly may look intriguing but they’re also toxic, as are amaryllis bulbs.  Poinsettias may not be poisonous, but their leaves and sap can cause severe gastric distress.

Lighted candles should never be left unattended.  A swinging tail or a swatting paw can quickly cause flying hot wax.

Never feed them steak, turkey, or chicken bones, which can lodge in the throat, stomach or intestinal tract.

Keep ornaments and aluminum foil out of reach – they’re dangerous if consumed.

Safeguard string objects, especially tinsel and ribbons.  They’re thin and sharp and can wrap around intestines or ball up in the stomach.

Closely examine indoor and outdoor lights.  Check electrical cords for any signs of bite marks, loose or frayed wires, proximity to the tree’s water supply or evidence of short circuits.  Use grounded three-prong extension cords and follow manufacturer’s guidelines for maximum tolerance.

Holiday guests coming in and out are an inviting temptation for pets to escape. Make sure they’re wearing collars and tags (the pets, not the guests).

Keep an eye out for pets under foot, and remind people that your normally friendly pet may be less so with enthusiastic children and unfamiliar faces.

Provide a special quiet place with a blanket and fresh water for your pets to retreat to when the festivities get too stressful.

Remember: Pets Are Not Gifts                                                                      

Though we believe companion pets are rewarding additions to a home and family, we believe in ownership responsibility even more

A pet is not the latest novelty toy that a child, or adult for that matter, can lose interest in once the batteries run out.  That adorable kitten or puppy wearing a big, red bow around his neck, comes with a commitment that requires a thoughtful discussion with the entire family before he is brought into the home.

 

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