The holidays are a time for good food, gifts and indulgence. It’s natural to want to include beloved family dogs in the celebration, but it’s important to keep them safe when you do. Holiday pet safety in Canal Winchester, OH doesn’t stop at making sure you put any chocolate desserts safely away when you leave the room, though. It’s important not to let your dog consume anything dangerous, and instead to give them dog treats that are good for them. Read on for some tips and suggestions!
Opt for pet-friendly decorations
You’re obviously not planning to feed your dog any holiday decorations, but they do matter for holiday pet safety. Some dogs will chew on anything. Avoid using mistletoe and holly where Fido might be able to reach them. Holly can cause nausea or vomiting and diarrhea, while mistletoe can cause the same and more, leading to cardiovascular issues. Artificial plants are a great alternative, or you can find many beautiful pet-safe bouquets.
Keep tempting foods out of reach
Most people know not to let their dogs get into chocolate, but the holidays are a good time to be reminded. Whether people are entertaining or just celebrating with the family at home, sweets are ubiquitous. Make sure not to keep food out where your dogs can reach it, and be careful not to leave plates unattended. This also goes for holiday drinks and cocktails. Dogs should never consume alcohol. They can become weak and ill, and in extreme cases are in danger of losing their lives if they imbibe too much.
People food isn’t a dog treat
It is extremely common to want to sneak your pet something delicious from the holiday spread, whether it’s cheese and crackers during a cocktail party or a scrap of meat from the dinner table. One small bite won’t necessarily send your dog to the vet in Canal Winchester, OH, but it’s important to remember that people food is not the same as dog treats. Fatty and spicy foods can cause serious gastrointestinal problems in dogs. They might get excited to receive a tidbit from your dinner plate, but they won’t be happy for long.
Doggy holiday gifts
If you want to give your dog a gift, toys are a much better option than people food. Chew toys will keep your dog occupied for much longer than a bite from the table, and you can get many treat-dispensing toys and Kongs that make a little snack go a long way. If you want to get them something to munch on, look for a holiday-themed rawhide treat. Rawhide can be found in any shape and color imaginable, and is a great dog treat when it comes to holiday pet safety. Rawhide can help with bad breath, removing plaque and tartar from the teeth and keeping your dog’s mouth clean.
Give the gift of doggy daycare
If you live in Canal Winchester, OH and are traveling this holiday, consider Lucky Bones Pet Resort as a quality, affordable option for dog boarding or daycare. Our facility is a great place for your pet to meet other dogs and play in a safe and supervised environment. Contact Lucky Bones Pet Resort today to learn more about our affordable options and facilities!
