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When our pets are sick or injured, they can’t tell us where it hurts or how they feel. However, there are subtle signs that can help you determine when your pet isn’t feeling well. Knowing how to recognize these hidden signs of pain is essential for getting your pet the help they need and improving their comfort.

In this article, we’ll discuss some of the hidden signs of pain in pets and what you can do to help.

Common Signs of Pain in Your Pet

While recognizing pain in your pet can be challenging, there are some things you should be looking for. Below are the most common signs of hidden pain in your pet.

• Decreased activity

Is your pet moving slowly or reluctant to engage in normal activities? Decreased activity is one of the most common signs of pain and discomfort. If your pet isn’t feeling well, they may be less interested in their normal activities, such as playing or going for walks. You may also notice your pet becoming more reluctant to perform simple tasks such as going up or down the stairs or jumping up on the couch.

• Decreased appetite

Meal time is usually a favorite time of day for our furry friends. However, if your pet suddenly stops finishing their meals or seems less interested in food, it could indicate an underlying problem. Pets with gastrointestinal upset may lose their appetite and have difficulty keeping their food down. Additionally, dental disease can make it uncomfortable for your pet to eat and enjoy their food.

• Change in behavior

When your pet is in pain, their behavior can change drastically. Pets who are affectionate and friendly may get aggressive or defensive. While this can be alarming, it’s natural for your pet to try to protect themselves when they’re not feeling well. In some cases, pets may also become withdrawn. You may notice your pet hiding or spending more time alone.

• Excessive Grooming

When your pet is experiencing pain or discomfort, their grooming habits can change. Excessive licking or grooming of a particular area can be a sign of an underlying problem. Additionally, continuous licking can cause a hot spot and additional trauma.

If you notice your pet licking, examine the area closely and look for any signs of injury. You’ll also want to discourage your pet from continuing to groom the area to prevent further harm.

What You Can Do to Help

Recognizing the early signs of pain is essential for getting your pet the help they need. If you notice any indication of pain, please give us a call so we can help. Our team will perform a thorough evaluation of your pet and discuss your concerns. Your observations can provide critical information to help us diagnose your pet. Once we know what’s wrong, we can discuss treatment options and pain management to help get your furry friend back on track.

Final Thoughts

When it comes to showing pain, all pets are different. It’s important to monitor your pet closely and know how to spot subtle signs of discomfort. If you have additional questions or concerns about your pet’s health, please give us a call. We hope these tips will help you identify your pet’s pain sooner and get them the essential care they need.

Is your pet constantly scratching? Pets can suffer from various skin issues that can cause extreme discomfort. Some pets may develop skin irritation as a result of allergies, while other pets may be itchy from fleas or other parasites. To provide your pet some itch relief, you’ll need to know what to look for and what is causing your pet’s problem.

In this article, we’ll discuss some of the most common skin issues in pets and what you can do to help.

Identifying Skin Issues

It’s normal for your pet to scratch an itch from time to time. However, excessive itching can be an early warning sign of an underlying condition that can become more serious if left untreated. If you notice your pet is itching or biting at their skin, perform a skin check to look for signs of a worsening problem.

Some of the signs to look for include:

• Red or irritated skin
• Loss of hair or fur
• Raised bumps
• Bleeding or open sores

If left untreated, pets can develop secondary bacterial infections. Because of this, it’s essential to keep a close eye on your pet’s skin and seek help if their condition does not improve.

Common Skin Conditions in Pets

While there are many causes of itchy skin, here are some of the most common skin conditions seen in pets.

• Environmental Allergies

Just like people, pets can develop environmental allergies. Some environmental allergens, such as pollen, are seasonal and may only cause problems at certain times of the year. However, pets can also develop allergies to dust and mold. These allergens can persist in your home and cause symptoms year-round if not properly addressed.

• Food Allergies

Another type of allergy your pet can encounter is a food allergy. Food allergies in pets are usually a reaction to a specific protein in their diet. In addition to skin irritation and itch, pets with this condition may also experience symptoms such as gastrointestinal upset or recurrent ear infections.

• Parasites

When you think of an itchy pet, the first thing many owners think of is fleas. Fleas and other biting insects are a common cause of skin irritation and discomfort.

Unfortunately, some pets can experience a more severe reaction known as flea allergy dermatitis. This condition is a result of an allergic reaction to flea saliva and can cause extreme discomfort long after the flea is gone.

How to Help Your Pet

If your pet is itchy, there are a few things you can do to help. The first step is to keep a close eye on your pet’s itching habits and monitor for any irritation of the skin. If your pet gets itchy after certain activities, such as playing in the grass, you may want to consider a bath to remove any environmental allergens from their coat. You should also check your pet for fleas and ensure they are on appropriate flea prevention.

We understand that getting to the bottom of your pet’s problem can be challenging, which is why our team is here to help. If your pet is struggling with a persistent itch, please give us a call. Our team will perform a thorough assessment of your pet’s condition and make recommendations based on their unique needs.

In some cases, changes to your pet’s diet or grooming habits may help resolve the problem. Medication may also be necessary to relieve discomfort or treat bacterial infections.

Final Thoughts

Skin issues are common in pets and cause significant discomfort if left untreated. If you have additional questions about your pet’s skin or would like to schedule an appointment, please give us a call. We hope this information will help solve your pet’s skin problems and get their itch under control.

Pets are a part of your family, and it’s essential to consider them when making emergency plans. July 15th is National Pet Fire Safety Day and the perfect opportunity to learn more about keeping your furry friends safe.

In this article, we’ll discuss some common fire dangers and what steps you can take to prepare your pet for an emergency.

Fire Dangers and Your Pet

Fire safety is a common household concern. However, when you have pets, there are additional fire hazards you should be aware of. Here are a few things to keep in mind when evaluating fire danger in your home.

• Open flames

Pets are curious creatures, and open flames can be enticing. Whether you have a lit candle or a roaring fireplace, it’s critical to keep pets at a safe distance to prevent accidental injury.

Never leave an open flame unattended, and keep candles out of your pet’s reach. Wagging tails and curious paws have been known to knock over lit candles and cause a fire. You may also want to consider a barrier to keep pets from getting too close to the fireplace.

• Stove Knobs

Does your cat enjoy playing with knobs? If you have a stovetop with knobs, this can be a potential fire danger. A cat looking for a new toy or a dog jumping up on the counter can accidentally hit a knob and turn the stove on. Not only can this cause injury to your pet, but it can also ignite items left on the stove and become a serious fire danger.

Because of this, it’s best to keep pets out of the kitchen when possible and consider putting covers on your stove knobs.

• Electrical Wires

Many pets chew on things they’re not supposed to and can cause damage to items in your home. Unfortunately, this can be a potential fire hazard when it comes to electrical wires.

Damaged wires can spark a fire and are an electrocution risk for your pet. To prevent this from happening, keep electrical wires out of reach. Furniture can be used to block access to electrical outlets, and protective covers are available to create an additional barrier between electrical wires and your pet.

Creating an Emergency Plan

While you can take certain precautions to reduce the fire risk in your home, emergencies can happen at any time. Creating an emergency plan can help you prepare and improve the chances of getting out safely. When creating your family emergency plan, remember to include your pets. Consider assigning a specific family member to gather the pets and get them out of the house safely. This can help ensure your furry friends won’t be overlooked.

Another essential part of your emergency plan is creating an emergency kit. When a fire occurs, you don’t want to waste precious time gathering food and supplies your pet may need. Put together a bag that contains your pet’s essentials, including food, bowls, medication, and leashes. You can also add a copy of your pet’s medical record and vaccine history.

Final Thoughts

Fires happen every day and can have serious consequences for the people and pets you love. We hope these tips have provided some new insight into pet fire safety and how to make sure you are prepared. If you have additional questions or concerns about fire safety and your pet, please give us a call. Our team is here to answer your questions and help you create a safe environment for your furry friends.

Does your dog have a fear of thunderstorms or fireworks? Many pets are scared of sudden loud noises and experience various symptoms due to their noise aversion. Unfortunately, thunderstorms and fireworks shows often occur more frequently during the summer months and can cause increased anxiety in your pet.

Luckily, there are ways to ease your pet’s fears, and we are here to help! Here are a few ways you can help your pet now and make sure they are prepared for the upcoming season.

Be Prepared

The first step in being prepared for summer booms is identifying your pet’s problem and creating a plan. The most common signs of a noise aversion include:

• Hiding
• Shaking
• Increased Vocalization
• House Soiling
• Destructive Behavior
• Attempts to Escape

If your pet is experiencing any of these symptoms during a noise event, it’s essential to take your pet’s condition seriously and look for ways to help. Failure to do so can seriously affect your pet’s well-being and even lead to injury.

Start by looking at your upcoming weather forecast or local events that may include fireworks. This can help you predict when these summer booms are most likely to occur and when you should start preparing your pet.

Don’t Wait!

While you may not be able to predict every boom, it’s better to be proactive in your efforts to keep your pet calm. Before an event occurs, try to set up a safe space away from windows and doors where your pet is less likely to hear any outside noise. Turning on some music or a sound machine can also be a great way to distract your pet and drown out any scary sounds.

Once your pet gets scared, it can be difficult to calm them down, and your efforts may not be as successful. Instead, take steps to calm your pet before the event occurs.

Talk to Us About a Calming Agent

In severe cases of noise aversion, calming agents can help reduce your pet’s anxiety and keep your pet safe.

If you think your pet would benefit from a calming agent, let us know as soon as possible. Don’t wait until the Fourth of July to get your pet the help they need. Set up an appointment ahead of time to discuss your pet’s condition. Our team is happy to make recommendations based on your pet’s unique needs.

Keep in mind that it may take some time to find the medication or dose that works best for your pet. Additionally, these calming agents must be given in advance of the noise event to provide the most benefit for your pet.

Final Thoughts

If your pet struggles with a fear of loud noises, the time to act is now! There are a variety of ways you can help your pet. However, it’s essential to take action soon and avoid waiting until it’s too late.

For more information about calming agents and other ways you can help reduce your pet’s fears, please give us a call. We look forward to hearing from your and helping your pet fight their noise fears!

Are you ready to enjoy warm summer days with your furry friend? With summer just around the corner, it’s essential to make sure you and your pets are prepared for some fun in the sun.

In this article, we’ll discuss five ways you can keep your pet healthy and safe this summer.

1. Preventatives

Preventatives are essential for keeping your pet healthy and happy all year long. During the summer months, many pets spend more time outdoors and are at greater risk of being exposed to mosquitos, fleas, and ticks. These insects can be a nuisance, but they can also carry disease and have a significant impact on your pet’s long-term health. Ensuring your pet is on the appropriate preventatives is an essential part of keeping your pet safe and reducing their risk of disease.

2. Pet ID and Microchips

While no pet owner wants to imagine their pet getting lost, pet identification can play a significant role in making sure your pet gets home safe.

One of the most common forms of identification is a name tag for your pet’s collar. When customizing your pet’s name tag, include contact information such as your phone number. This can be critical for helping people get ahold of you in an emergency.

If you are looking for a more permanent form of identification, microchips are a great option. Microchipping is a simple and pain-free procedure that can be performed during your pet’s routine wellness appointment. If your pet is lost, shelters and vet clinics can obtain your contact information from your pet’s microchip and help reunite you and your furry friend.

3. Prepare for “Booms”

From fireworks to summer storms, summer can mean more loud noises and sudden booms. For pets with noise phobias, it’s important to prepare for these events and provide your pet with some additional love and care.

If your pet has a noise phobia, pay close attention to your weather forecast and be mindful of holidays or other events where fireworks may be used. Some pets may also benefit from calming agents or medication to ease their fear and anxiety.

4. Know the Signs of Heat Exhaustion

As the temperatures rise, your pet’s risk of heat exhaustion increases. Heat exhaustion is extremely dangerous in pets and can be fatal if not properly treated. While reducing your pet’s exposure to extreme temperatures is critical, it’s also important to know how to recognize heat exhaustion in your pet. Some of the signs to look for include:

• Excessive panting
• Weakness or incoordination
• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Sudden collapse

If you notice any of these symptoms, please seek veterinary care immediately,

5. Lookout for Hot Spots

For many pets, warm weather can mean more hot spots. Hot spots are an inflammation of the skin and can turn into severe bacterial infections if not treated properly. If you notice your pet is excessively licking, examine the area for any redness or irritation. Getting your pet to stop licking is critical. However, you will also need to keep the area clean and dry. If the inflammation is severe or does not seem to be healing, please give us a call.

Final Thoughts

We hope this information will help keep your pets safe and prepare for blissful summer fun. If you have additional questions about preparing your pet for summer, please give us a call. We look forward to hearing from you and helping you keep your furry friends healthy and happy this summer.

While parasite prevention is essential for your pet’s health, it can also play a critical role in keeping you and your family safe. Some of the parasites that affect pets can be spread to people.

In this article, we’ll discuss which parasites could be a risk to you and how to keep you and your pets parasite free.

Zoonotic Parasites

While many parasites can affect pets, zoonotic parasites can be transmitted from pets to people. Below are a few of the most common zoonotic parasites and what you need to know about them.

• Tapeworms

The most common zoonotic tapeworm is known as Dipylidium and is found in both dogs and cats. While you can not get this tapeworm directly from your pet, it can be spread by fleas. While it may seem unlikely that you would eat a flea, it can happen accidentally and is most commonly seen in children.

• Hookworms

Hookworms are another intestinal parasite that you can contract from your pet. Hookworm eggs can be excreted in your pet’s feces and live in the soil for long periods of time. When your skin comes in contact with contaminated feces or soil, the hookworm burrows into your skin. The infected area may become red and is often quite itchy.

• Toxoplasma

Toxoplasma is an intestinal parasite that is spread to humans through contact with cat feces. Symptoms of toxoplasma infection in people can vary but are usually mild and resemble the flu. However, pregnant women who become infected with Toxoplasma can spread the infection to their unborn children.

Keeping Your Pets Parasite Free

One of the most critical steps in keeping you and your pets safe is parasite prevention. Parasite prevention comes in various forms, including topical treatments, oral medications, and injectables. Some preventatives can protect your pet from multiple parasites. However, it’s essential to ensure your pet is fully protected from fleas, ticks, heartworms, and internal parasites.

If you have questions about your pet’s level of protection, our team is happy to provide recommendations and help make sure your pet is adequately protected.

In addition to preventative care, parasite testing is also critical. Fecal tests can detect intestinal parasites and are recommended during your pet’s annual wellness exam. You should also monitor your pet for any concerning symptoms such as weight loss, diarrhea, or excessive itch.

Reducing Your Risk

While keeping your pet parasite-free is critical, some additional measures can help reduce your risk. Always wash your hands before eating and after handling your pet. When your pet uses the bathroom, clean it up as soon as possible and always dispose of the waste properly.

Because of the increased health risks associated with Toxoplasma infection during pregnancy, the CDC recommends that pregnant women avoid cleaning their cat’s litter box when possible. Instead, ask another family member to help you with the task. If this is not possible, wear disposable gloves and wash your hands thoroughly when you are done.

Final Thoughts

Not only can parasite prevention protect your pet, but it can also help you! In addition to using parasite prevention, remember to be careful when cleaning up after your pet and always practice good hygiene.

If you have additional questions about keeping your pet parasite free, please give us a call. We are happy to set up an appointment to check your pet for parasites and discuss their preventative care.

Is your home a safe space for your pet? Unfortunately, many everyday items in your home can pose a significant risk to your pet’s health.

Here are a few dangers that may be lurking in your home and steps you can take to help keep your pet safe.

Cleaning Products

You probably spend plenty of time cleaning up messes in your home. Unfortunately, some of the ingredients in your cleaning products can be toxic to your pet. Some of these harmful ingredients include

• Bleach
• Ammonia
• Formaldehyde
• Chlorine
• Phenols

When using products with these ingredients, read the label carefully and follow the manufactures instructions regarding appropriate use and dilution.

While cleaning, it’s best to keep your pet out of the area. This will help limit your pet’s exposure and prevent your furry friend from getting into cleaning products while you’re not looking. When cleaning the toilet bowl, consider putting the lid down to reduce your pet’s risk of drinking the toilet bowl cleaner. Likewise, avoid spraying aerosols in your pet’s presence.

Not only can cleaning products be toxic if consumed, but they can also cause chemical burns. It’s best to avoid using harsh cleaning products in areas that your pet frequents. When you are done cleaning, make sure all cleaning products are safely stored out of your pet’s reach.

Plants

Whether they are in your home or around your yard, many plants and flowers can put your pet in danger. The ASPCA’s Toxic Plant Guide is a phenomenal resource for identifying dangerous plants in your home. Their site offers photos to help you identify the plant and discusses what kind of symptoms your pet may experience if exposed.

While removing toxic plants from your home is the best way to keep your pet safe, accidents can happen. If you believe your pet has consumed a toxic plant, please give us a call. We can help you decide what additional treatment may be necessary. If you are unable to identify the plant, a plant clipping or picture can help us determine an appropriate treatment plan and get your pet the essential care they may need.

Personal Care Items

Have you ever noticed your pet licking your lotion after you’ve applied it? From lotions to toothpaste, Personal care items are a commonly overlooked danger in your home. Even though you may not use these products on your pet, your furry friend may still be exposed to the toxic ingredients.

Lotions often contain artificial fragrances that can be irritating to your pet’s sensitive nose. Additionally, some lotions and creams contain medication, including anti-inflammatory agents, that can be toxic. When using these products, make sure you wash your hands thoroughly and avoid letting your pet lick any product off of your skin.

Another personal care item of concern is toothpaste. Xylitol is a common ingredient in human toothpaste and is extremely toxic to pets. Even if you’re not using your toothpaste to brush your pet’s teeth, it’s essential to be mindful of its potential danger and keep your toothpaste out of your pet’s reach.

Give Us a Call!

Identifying the hidden toxins in your home is an essential part of keeping your pets healthy and safe. If your pet is exposed to a toxin or is experiencing symptoms such as vomiting or lethargy, please give us a call as soon as possible.

We hope this information will help make your home a safer place for your furry friends.

Image credit: Mariakray/Pixabay

Are you looking for ways to show your pet some extra love this Valentine’s Day? While toys and treats are great, there is nothing better than giving your pet the gift of health. February is National Pet Dental Health Month and an excellent time to make your pet’s dental health a priority.

Here are a few ways you can improve your pet’s dental health and show their teeth some love all year long!

Benefits of Brushing Your Pet’s Teeth

Brushing your pet’s teeth does more than just improve their breath. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, the majority of adult pets have some degree of dental disease. This condition is also known as periodontal disease and is caused by plaque and tartar buildup on your pet’s teeth. This buildup can spread below your pet’s gum line, causing gum inflammation and irritation.

As plaque and tartar accumulate, the amount of bacteria in your pet’s mouth will also increase. Not only is this bad for your pet’s oral health, but bacteria can also enter your pet’s bloodstream and spread throughout their body. This can have a significant impact on your pet’s long-term health.

The more frequently you brush your pet’s teeth, the better you can prevent the harmful repercussions of dental disease. Make sure you are using pet-friendly toothpaste. Not only does pet-friendly toothpaste come in a variety of tasty flavors, but they are also free of harmful ingredients that can be found in human products.

If you have questions about your brushing technique, let us know at your next wellness appointment. We can discuss your pet’s dental routine and how to make the process as stress-free as possible.

Trading Treats for Dental Chews

While treats can be delicious, they are not always the best for your pet’s health. This Valentine’s Day, consider trading out your pet’s high-calorie treats for healthy dental chews. Dental chews can help remove plaque while still serving as a tasty snack. Dental chews are not only a great option for a special Valentine’s Day treat, but they are also a great way to improve your pet’s dental health year-round.

When purchasing dental chews, look for products with a Veterinary Oral Health Council seal of approval. This means that the dental product has undergone a thorough review by veterinary professionals and is certified to improve your pet’s dental health. We are also happy to make recommendations based on your pet’s specific needs.

Schedule Your Pet’s Dental Cleaning

Do you know the last time your pet received a professional dental cleaning? At-home care is an important part of improving your pet’s oral health. However, professional care is still a necessity. We recommend that adult pets receive a dental cleaning approximately once a year.

These cleanings allow our veterinary team to remove all of your pet’s stubborn tartar, including the buildup that accumulates under the gum line. Professional dental cleanings are performed while your pet is under anesthesia. This helps keep your pet comfortable and allows us to perform a thorough cleaning.

Final Thoughts

We hope this article has given you some ideas on how you can improve your pet’s dental health. While February is a great time to show your pet’s teeth some extra TLC, it’s crucial to maintain healthy dental habits all year long. If you have additional questions about your pet’s dental care or would like to schedule an appointment, please give us a call.

Image credit: Irina Lesovaia / iStock / Getty Images Plus

It’s a new year, which means it’s a perfect time to reflect on the special bond you and your pet share. You love your pet. And they love you! Pets are treasured members of our families, so it just makes good sense to consider the year ahead and plan ways to help your pet stay in tip-top shape! Read on for 8 simple ways you can make your pet’s life even better.

1. See your home through your pet’s eyes.

From plants that may be toxic to household cleaners that could make them sick, trash containers out in the open, or medications within their reach, many of the things we don’t think twice about can be a real problem for pets. Take a moment to consider your home from your pet’s perspective and you’ll likely find all sorts of ways to remove potential hazards and keep your four-legged family member safe from their own curiosity.

2. Go outside with your dog on walks – it’s good exercise for both of you!

If you’re like many pet owners, your dog’s daily exercise is probably limited to a quick walk through the neighborhood. Consider making time for longer walks and play sessions. If you can’t, try hiring a dog walker or finding a doggy daycare in your area. Not only will your pet enjoy more time outdoors or being engaged in activity, you’ll be boosting their fitness levels too!

3. Get rid of that extra weight!

If your pet is overweight, it’s not just an aesthetic problem. Extra pounds put pets at risk for all sorts of serious conditions like arthritis, diabetes, heart disease and other significant illnesses. If you think your pet may be overweight, schedule an appointment with us to check them out. We’ll work together to set a reasonable goal for their weight loss.

4. Brush your dog or cat’s teeth regularly.

If you don’t already brush your pet’s teeth, now is a good time to start! Just as with humans, it only takes a few minutes each day and can help stop more advanced and complicated problems from developing.

Scheduling a professional cleaning with us will help us assess their dental health below the gum line, as well as what we can see when examining their mouth. Did you know that treating dental disease in its earliest stages not only helps keep your pet healthy, but is more economical than treating advanced dental disease? It literally makes “cents” to stay on top of your pet’s dental health.

As your pet’s veterinarian, we can also advise on dental treats, chews and rinses that will keep your pet’s mouth bright, healthy and smelling fresh.

5. Frequently clean food and water dishes that may be harboring bacteria.

If you notice slime (biofilm), cloudy or otherwise discolored water, or if food is left in the dish overnight, chances are good that bacteria is growing there. This can make your pet severely ill. Daily cleanings of their dishes followed by disinfecting in the dishwasher once a week will help them avoid this hazard.

6. Give them food that is appropriate to their age/weight/health needs.

Each year of a pet’s life brings special needs and concerns so it’s important to consider their age, weight, and health needs as you choose the best food for them. Unfortunately, there is so much marketing directed at pet owners about which foods to choose, it can be complex and overwhelming. We’re here to help you navigate the options and find food options that are best for your pet.

7. Schedule your pet’s wellness exam.

From vaccines to preventive medicine and parasite prevention to guide your pet’s journey as your pet ages, a wellness exam is a great way to keep your pet healthy and on track. We can help you learn more about their needs as they age, find ways to help them live longer and healthier lives, and identify problems in their earliest stages.

8. Spend more time with your pet.

Spending time with our pets is such a gift – why not commit to more of it? Not only will you make your pet happier, but it’s a great way to stay connected and strengthen the bond between you and your pet.

Have a happy 2022!

We hope you have a wonderful and healthy year ahead. We are here to help guide your pet’s journey in health and wellbeing, and we look forward to seeing you at our next visit!

Celebrating the holidays with your pet is a wonderful gift. However, these celebrations can pose some potential risks to your pet’s health. Here are a few things you should keep in mind to help keep your pet safe this holiday season.

Dangerous Decorations

While holiday decorations are certainly beautiful, some decorations can be troublesome for your pet. One of the most common issues is pets consuming objects or materials that they shouldn’t. From sparkly tinsel to shiny ornaments, your pet may try to chew or swallow your holiday decorations. Not only can this cause digestive issues, but it can also be a choking hazard. Monitor your pet closely and try to keep decorations out of reach if possible.

If you are putting up a Christmas tree, there are some additional hazards you should be aware of. Cats frequently see Christmas trees as an exciting new object to climb. While you should discourage your pet from climbing the tree, it is always a good idea to make sure the tree is adequately secured just in case. This way, the tree won’t come toppling down in the event of a rogue tree climbing adventure.

If you are celebrating with a live tree, make sure you keep your pet from drinking the water out of the tree base. Tree water can contain fertilizer and bacteria that can be harmful to your pet. Also, be aware that other holiday plants like mistletoe and holly are dangerous and should be avoided.

Toxic Treats

As you celebrate the holidays, there will likely be plenty of tasty treats around your home. Unfortunately, many of these treats can be toxic to your pet. Some of the most common toxic foods include chocolate, raisins, grapes, onions, and garlic. Additionally, many sugar-free candies and baked goods contain an ingredient known as xylitol. Even small amounts of xylitol can be hazardous.

Try to keep tasty treats out of your pet’s reach and never leave food unattended. Remind your guests of your food rules and provide pet-friendly treats instead. If you are unsure if your pet has eaten something toxic, it is always best to give us a call or contact the Pet Poison Helpline.

Holiday Party Problems

Before you have your family and friends over for a holiday gathering, you should consider the impact a holiday party can have on your pet. Many pets experience anxiety with large groups of people in their homes. Creating a safe space where your pet can retreat from strangers can help reduce some of their stress. This space can be a quiet bedroom or another closed-off area of the house.

Creating a safe space can also help protect your pet from other dangers. With many people coming and going, doors are sometimes left open, and there may be more opportunities for your pet to escape. Try to keep your pet away from the door when people are coming and going. Also, ensure all doors are properly closed before letting your pet loose in the house.

Enjoy!

We hope you enjoy this wonderful time of year with the ones you love. Keeping your furry friends safe will ensure a joyous time is had by all!