Local, state experts share tips on how to keep pets safe during holidays
Published: Saturday, December 21, 2013 at 9:00 p.m.
Last Modified: Saturday, December 21, 2013 at 10:08 p.m.
The furriest members of the family could be at risk this holiday season with food and decorations lying around that could be poisonous or harmful to pets.
“You have to take precautions and be proactive,” Tina Miller, a board member for the Humane Society of West Alabama, said. “Having pets is like having children at the house at Christmas.”
According to the Alabama Veterinary Medical Association, 60 percent of people will share the holiday meal with pets. However, pet owners should think twice before sharing, as most animal-related emergency visits are due to eating something inappropriate.
Turkey is OK in small amounts, but people should avoid sharing the skin and bones with their pets. The skin, which is fatty, can cause pets to develop pancreatitis, and poultry bones — especially cooked ones — have the potential to break off and cause perforations.
Other foods to be avoided include grapes and raisins, excessively salty foods, foods flavored with onion or garlic powder, desserts, chocolate and sweets containing xylitol, which can be toxic to dogs.
“Always be aware of any changes that you see in your pet's behavior,” Miller said. “If they're especially lethargic or even the opposite, extremely excited, and you think there may be something they've gotten into or are concerned about their behavior, it wouldn't hurt to get them checked out or call your vet. We pet owners know best our dogs' and cats' behavior.”
Decorations can also be dangerous to pets. Decorative plants such as mistletoe and holly can cause vomiting, and lilies are often deadly to cats. However, according to the Alabama Veterinary Medical Association, poinsettias, which have a reputation for being poisonous, often cause little more than a mild upset stomach. It is also important to keep an eye on electrical cords, tinsel and ribbons, which are extremely attractive to cats.
“Dogs and cats find anything new very interesting. Especially cats want to investigate and see what those things are,” Miller said. “That's why you have to section off certain areas.”
The Alabama Veterinary Medical Association also recommends keeping pets confined during family gatherings, keeping trash secure and keeping your veterinarian's number and a number for a local animal emergency hospital ready.
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