Edmond Veterinarians Offer Valuable Tips for Holiday Season

As the holiday season approaches, White Oaks Veterinary Clinic reminds everyone to keep their pets safe from harm. Our Edmond veterinarians offer simple, proven tips for pet owners to protect their pets from common holiday decorations and food.

Veterinary Tips to Avoid Urgent Animal Hospital Visits

Be sure your pet is welcome before you visit. Enjoying family and friends is the highlight of the season. However, not every household is pet safe and not everyone loves pets as you do. Simply ask if your pet is welcome before you bring them along on your visit.

Secure Christmas trees and other decorations. A highly decorated tree that falls on your pet can inflict serious injury. A smaller dog, e.g., Yorkie, or cat is at particular risk of being hurt. Also, ensure that pets are not drinking water from the Christmas tree stand, as the tree water often has preservatives in it which can be harmful to dogs and cats. If you own a cat, skip the tinsel, as it fascinates them and can obstruct their digestive tract if ingested.

Be vigilant for any dangerous or non-approved special treats. You probably already know not to give your pets chocolate or other food sweetened with xylitol. However, pet owners should be vigilant that any visitors, particularly small children, do not "share" their human treats with pets. Grapes, raisins, macadamia nuts are also problematic and toxic to dogs and cats and should be kept out of their reach.

Carefully select pet toys. Including your pet in the gift giving season is wonderful. However, dogs can destroy small toys quickly, swallowing dangerous parts, and cats love ribbon, yarn and string, all of which pose great danger if ingested.

Do without mistletoe and holly. Traditional and decorative, these two can be dangerous to pets if they swallow any pieces. From nausea and vomiting to gastrointestinal and cardiovascular problems, these substances can cause serious health issues.

Never leave candles unattended or exposed electric wires within your pet's reach. Keep candles in proper holders and secured. Hide or protect the extra electrical cords out of harm's way for your pets. Dogs and cats can easily knock over low candles or chew on exposed cords.

Follow these simple tips to keep your pets from emergency animal hospital visits this holiday season. Let us know if you have any questions about these tips or other holiday items.

What steps do you take to ensure your pet is safe and healthy through the holidays?