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Four Paws Veterinary Clinic

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Holiday Hazards

Around the holidays, our clinic is contacted about pets that get into

many of our holiday decorations and holiday feast. These mishaps

often require a visit to your Veterinarian. The following are a few

ways to keep your pet(s) safe and avoid expensive holiday vet visits.

 

 

Possible Hazard                 Solution

Electrical cords can cause burns and shock. 

 Tape down or cover cords. Unplug lights when you are not home.
 

Holiday ornaments can break and injure the paws and mouth of your pet.

 

Hang all ornaments out of reach to avoid possible ingestion.

 

A burning candle and a wagging tail can quickly become a bad situation.

 

Keep all candles and open flames up, and away.

 

Your holiday tree can be a great jungle gym, especially to cats. Pine needles can cause diarrhea if ingested by your pet.

 

Secure your holiday tree to the wall. Vacuum up pine needles.

 

Tinsel and ribbons are dangerous if ingested, and easily become entangled in your pet’s intestines.

 

Keep these items up and away from your pet, or better yet do not use them at all.

 

Food is in abundance this time of year.

 

Keep all food out of reach of your pet. Encourage your guests not to feed your animals

 

Your outdoor pet’s water can freeze in these cold months.

 

Make sure there is always fresh unfrozen water available. Provide shelter from the wind and cold.

 

Sidewalk de-icer can cause irritation to paws.

 

Wipe your pet’s paws with a damp cloth after walks. Use a pet safe de-icer.

 

Snow can accumulate between your pet’s paw pads, and blood flow can become compromised.

 

Check your pet’s paws often and do not allow snow to build up.

 

Ice is slippery, your pet can injure a paw or leg.

 

Avoid ice. Use caution.

 

Antifreeze tastes and smells sweet. Even a small amount can cause permanent kidney damage or even death.

 

Keep antifreeze away from pets. Clean up any spills. Contact your Veterinarian immediately if you think your pet has ingested antifreeze.

The best way to keep your pet safe during the holiday season is to use common sense. Remember, holidays can be stressful for you and your pet but they can be less stressful if you follow these recommendations.

 

Clinic Hours

DOCTORS’ HOURS BY APPOINTMENT ONLY.

Monday, Wednesday, Thursday
7:00am - 7:00pm
Tuesday, Friday
7:00am - 6:00pm
Saturday
8:00am - 12:00pm