Holiday Safety Thought #1 for our Pets

The beautiful season of Christmas, Hanukkah and New Year is here and our pets join in many of the festivities. As we approach the merriment, we must keep foremost in our minds the protection and safety of our loving, four-legged family members.

Perhaps first, we should consider whether or not the gift of a new pet is a wise choice. New pets do NOT necessarily make good holiday gifts and adding a new pet requires a huge commitment and responsibility beyond the holiday season. However, if you are truly thinking of getting a new dog or cat and have given it a great deal of careful thought and consideration, think about adopting a homeless pet who would benefit from your love and safekeeping. There are many rescue organizations, animal shelters, and humane societies with breeds of every type and of all age groups. Our physically challenged and older furry friends who have been abandoned under a myriad of circumstances are yearning for our love and embrace and can truly benefit from your open arms.

Please think long and hard before adopting a new pet during this holiday season. Let good reason rule the excitement of the heart.

Holiday Safety Thought #3

Clarence loves to "help" but can get himself into mischief.

• Secure strings of lights, electrical cords, and plugs away from areas that your pets can get trapped, chew on them, or topple your tree. And, be sure to unplug all lights when you leave your pets home alone.
• Locate scissors, string, ribbons, and papers away from reach.  They have a myriad of dangers possible!
• Keep toys away from inquisitive and chewing pups.  Pieces can be ingested, cause choking, block intestines.
• Maintain your pets regular schedules of eating, walking, and resting.  This will help to keep stress to a minimum.
• Continue your pets on their regular diet and away from foods that can cause poisoning, stomach upset, or blockages.
• Make sure that your pets remain hydrated with lots of fresh water available.  The water around your Christmas tree can be extremely dangerous with toxins and pine needles.  Be sure that additives are nontoxic and do NOT use aspirin which can be lethal. Even pretty snow globes can present a risk because they can have poisonous fluids such as alcohol or antifreeze in their liquids.
• Keep the telephone numbers of your veterinarian, emergency 24-hour pet clinics, and animal poison control centers posted near your telephone. 
• Be prepared for any possible emergency!!!

Merry Christmas to you all!