Hespeler Animal Hospital

Our holiday season is rapidly approaching.  Here are some tips to help keep your pets happy and safe.

Ornament Safety:

• Anchor your Christmas tree so it doesn’t tip and fall. Be aware that tree water may contain fertilizers that can cause stomach upset. Stagnant tree water is a breeding ground for bacteria.
• If your pet nibbles on these plants, they can nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Mistletoe can also cause heart ailments. Many lily plants are poisonous to cats.  Artificial plants are safer.
• Tinsel can cause intestinal obstructions if nibbled. Please avoid it.
• Don’t leave lighted candles unattended, as they can cause burns and fires.
• Keep wires, batteries and glass or plastic ornaments out of paws’ reach.

Holiday Food Dangers:

• Most of us know the hazards of chocolate and anything sweetened with xylitol. Be sure to keep your pets away from the table, unattended plates of food, and garbage cans.
• Don’t give your pets leftovers. That’s just asking for tummy troubles!
• Place your unattended alcoholic drinks where pets cannot get to them.
• Safe treats for pets include chew toys that are basically indestructible, Kongs, balls too big to swallow, a stuffed catnip toy or the interactive cat dancer.

Pet-Safe Holiday Gatherings:

• Make sure all of your medications are out of reach, yours and guests’.
• Pets will need a quiet space to retreat to when visitors seem scary.
• New Year’s Noise can terrify pets and hurt their ears. Keep pets away for this part of the celebration.

Season’s Greetings to all of our clients and their pets. We love you all!