The holiday season is in full swing, and you want nothing less than an emergency vet visit during this time. So it's important that your furry friend stays safe and healthy. Here are some tips to keep your dog out of harm's way during this festive time of year.
Keep chocolates and cookies out of reach!
While it may be tempting to leave out a plate of cookies for Santa, you do not want to risk your dog finding these before he comes down the chimney. Not only will your dog end up on the naughty list, but they will also end up at an emergency vet.
We all know that chocolate is toxic to dogs, but even if those cookies aren't chocolate chip you may still need to be careful. Xylitol is an artificial sweetener sometimes found in peanut butter that causes liver failure in dogs. Check the ingredients list carefully on store bought cookies or peanut butter to make sure it doesn't contain this highly toxic ingredient.
And if you're gifting any sort of sweets, put them in your stocking instead of under the tree. Dogs have a great sense of smell and they will find and possibly open these gifts early which will spoil the surprise!
What can you feed your dog from the table?
Avoid feeding your dog oily foods and never give them cooked bones, as these can splinter and cause internal damage. It's also essential to know what foods are safe for your dog to eat. Check a list of dog-friendly foods and stick to those options to prevent any digestive issues.
Here's a good one from Chewy to check out.
Dog-proof your holiday decorations.
If your dog has a habit of jumping on things, secure your Christmas tree to prevent any accidents. Keep delicate ornaments and decorations out of reach, as some dogs may mistake them for toys. You may also want to be cautious with items like tinsel, as they can be harmful if ingested.
If you leave the house, you might consider blocking off the tree or keeping your pup in a separate room as they may want to start mischief when you're not around to stop them. This will also guarantee your pup stays on the nice list!
Prepare for cold weather.
For short-haired breeds, consider a dog coat. We love this one from Barbour. And when the roads are salted, this can cause irritation to the paw pads so consider booties. Fika just started wearing some from RC Pets which you can find on Amazon. She got used to them straight away and was very happy wearing them around New York City.
By following these tips, you can enjoy a safe and joyful holiday season with your beloved canine companion. Remember, a little precaution goes a long way in keeping your dog happy and healthy during this festive time of year.