Year-round pet health practices are a crucial part of responsible pet ownership. Just as we prioritize our well-being with good food, staying active, and doctor visits, our furry friends deserve the same care. These practices help protect our pets, ensuring they lead healthy and happy lives throughout the year.
As the holiday season approaches, the wintry air is filled with excitement and the promise of celebration. Our pets, the most important members of the family, are just as eager to partake in all of the festivities. However, the silly season comes with its own set of challenges, including potential hazards for our furry friends. So, here are some key tips and reminders to ensure their health and safety amongst all the present giving, extra-food eating and general merriment. Knowing basic first aid and being prepared for emergencies can make a significant difference. Although first aid care is not a substitute for professional veterinary care, it can help until you reach a veterinarian in case of an emergency:
- Know the location of the nearest 24/7 emergency veterinary clinic and keep contact numbers readily available.
- Consider a travel-sized pet first-aid kit for holiday trips.
- Ensure your pet has proper identification, such as a microchip.
Your simple daily walk is a whole different story when snowy, Narnia-esque landscapes and icy paths are involved. If the cold has you scurrying back indoors in a jiffy, then the same goes for your pets, you don’t want their vulnerable tails, delicate ear tips, and dainty little toes getting frostbite. Keep a watchful eye on them for any hints of distress, but regular exercise remains an absolute must for the physical and mental well-being of our furballs.
With decorating around the house you’ll want to make sure that you:
- Secure your Christmas tree to prevent it from toppling over.
- Keep mistletoe and holly out of paws’ reach. These plants, if ingested, can lead to various health issues. Opt for pet-friendly alternatives to keep your home festive and safe.
- Watch out for small, shiny and tempting-looking decorations that could lead to digestive problems if ingested.
- Lit candles pose a fire hazard if knocked over by pets. Keep them out of reach.
- Keep wires, batteries, and delicate ornaments away from pets to prevent injuries.
Our pets have this charming habit of lurking around the table, especially when there’s the potential for gobbling up any extra meaty morsels. However, it’s important to remember that so many human snacks and treats can be perilous for our pet pals:
- Chocolate and xylitol-containing products are harmful to pets. Keep them out of reach.
- Avoid feeding pets fatty, spicy, or bone-in foods, which can lead to health issues.
- Alcoholic beverages are life-threatening if ingested by pets. Keep them securely out of reach.
- Choose pet-friendly chew toys and treats to stuff your pet’s stockings and keep them entertained.
Following these practices will help our pets stay out of harm’s way during the busy holiday season. And, when our furry friends are thriving, we can savour the festivities with our hearts at ease!
Happy Holidays!
