Sometimes Pets don't mix well with the Holidays

Many people are preparing for Thanksgiving in the next couple days. Pre baking pies, getting groceries, and cleaning the house. But don’t forget about the simple steps you should take to make sure your pup stays safe this holiday season.

These tips are based on emergencies and problems veterinarians see on our around Thanksgiving. Please take special care with the following:
FIRST: Have your local emergency vet clinic number on hand –

* Safely dispose of the turkey string and foil– the string that wraps or ties turkey's legs is often haphazardly placed aside and found and eaten by dogs and cats. The same danger exists with the plastic turkey wrapper. Ingestion of these indigestible items can require life-saving surgery. Place string, aluminum foil, and turkey wrappers in a secure covered trashcan.

* Take care with the fireplace – many times Thanksgiving is the first of the winter holidays and the first time the fireplace has been used. Take special care that pets stay away from the fire.

* No Bones – bones can be dangerous to dogs. Don't feed your dog the cooked bones. If you dispose of them in the trash – make sure the trash is secure from your pet.

* Special care with candles – this is a wonderful occasion to light some beautiful candles. Only do this with the candles are supervised. Never leave the room with a burning candle. Dogs can knock them over causing burns or house fires.

* Beware liquid potpourri – this is another item that is commonly used during the holidays to give the home a wonderful aroma. The liquid potpourri can be very caustic to the gums and throat if ingested. Spray or plug in air fresheners may be a safer alternative.

* Fostbite - Many times, when people have large groups of people over, to minimize the stress on the pooch they send them outside while people are arriving. Unfortunately, people get sidetracked, and they forget there 5 pd pooch is out in ten degree weather. Frost bite is all too common, so make sure to find a safe warm spot for your pup to hang out during the commotion.

And one last quick reminder -
Cooked bones
Chocolate
Grapes (including rasins, currants and wine)
Onions
That’s the no no list. Any amount of these can cause serious damage or death. So be careful when setting half eaten slices f pie or leftovers on the couch cushion or side table. It is amazing how high dogs will jump when they really really want something.

If anything on this list occurs, please contact your vet ASAP, don’t wait.
Most of all Have a Happy Holiday!