Avoid Christmas tree disasters.
Christmas trees are a wonderful
tradition, but they can lead to problems if you have a curious canine.
- Hang non-breakable ornaments near the bottom of the tree.
- Tinsel can be deadly when eaten. Just don’t put it on the tree.
- Don’t let your dog drink the Christmas-tree water. It often
contains chemicals to help the tree last longer; this chemical can cause
severe indigestion in dogs.
- Pine needles can cause heath problems. If indigested, they can
puncture holes in your pet’s intestines. Regularly sweep up fallen pine
needles to avoid a trip to the emergency animal clinic.
Mistletoe, poinsettias and Amaryllis are toxic.
Be aware of these poisonous holiday plants and
keep your pets away from them.
Keep “blowing” snow in the globe.
Many snow globes contain antifreeze, which is extremely toxic to dogs—so
it’s best to keep snow globes and all antifreeze out of the reach of a
happy, tail wagging dog. If there is an antifreeze spill of any kind, send
your dog out of the room while you clean up the liquid. Dilute the spot with
water and floor cleaner to ensure your dog does not lick these harmful
chemicals later.
Holiday sweets are not dog treats.
Candy , cookies, cakes, peppermints--and
especially chocolate-- can trigger life threatening illnesses in dogs.
Make no bones about it. Cooked
turkey and chicken bones are not for dogs as they can easily break and cause
choking and bone shards can get stuck in your dog’s gums. Stick with ‘bones”
specifically designed for dogs to chew. Ask your local veterinarian for
suggestions.
A relaxed dog is a good dog. Most
dogs are excitable when guests arrive. Exercise your dog prior to the
arrival of guests. After 30 minutes of walking or playing, most dogs will be
more relaxed or ready to take a nap. Commotion and unusual circumstances can
cause stress for dogs. . Allow your canine companion to join the festivities
after the initial commotion of arrival has subsided.
Keep the liquids flowing! When
pets are stressed by unfamiliar circumstances, they typically pant more. Be
sure to keep fresh water readily available for them to drink.
Beware of cold and snowy weather.
While it might be convenient to put your dogs outside when guests arrive for
holiday festivities, falling temperatures and snow can be dangerous to pets
. In addition, never let your pet roam freely, as icy roads can make it hard
for cars to stop If your dog wanders into the street.
Do not give pets as surprise gifts!
A cute and cuddly puppy might seem the perfect
gift choice, but many of these holiday presents end up at animal shelters. A
dog takes a real commitment of time , and adoptive owners must be ready to
participate in training and managing the responsibility of their new family
member. If you know someone who’s serious about adopting a dog consider
giving a leash, collar or dog training certificate from Bark Busters, along
with a note that says a dog of the recipient’s choice comes with it. This
will help ensure the lucky person receives the dog he or she wants to have
as part of the family.
Add your pet to your gift list.
Help your dogs stay occupied and out of the holiday decorations by giving
them their own gifts. The “Buster Cube” or a “Kong”, for instance, are both
nearly indestructible and will distract your dog for long periods of time. |
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