How to protect pets this holiday season

As the holiday season is approaching quickly, there are many different factors that can negatively affect animal mental and physical health. 

Local vets have provided some information on everything pet owners need to know to keep their pets safe during the holidays.

Dr. Noel Ratliff, veterinarian at Comfort Veterinary Hospital, said that one of the biggest threats to pets is the stress from the holidays.

“The decorations with new smells being brought out, furniture being moved around, change in routines, family and strangers arriving etc. can cause a change in behavior,” Ratliff said.

Ratliff said that the decorations themselves can be another threat to pets.

“Watch out for any candles being burned and even watch for any wax melters that they can inadvertently knock over causing a fire or dip their foot or tail into,” Ratliff said.

With family dinners, pets can sneak food. Ratliff said that pet owners should avoid giving pets table food, especially bones and unbaked yeast. 

“Bones can cause choking or intestinal blockage and unbaked yeast dough can cause a painful gas and possible dangerous bloating,” Ratliff said.

Ratliff said if you want to give your pets, specifically dogs, a special treat, you can give them ice shavings as they are cheap and low in calories.

If you are traveling with pets, Dr. Ratliff said to make sure any pet medication is packed, their vaccines are up to date and that any airline requirements are met in the case of air travel.

“Be sure to pack extra food in case of any travel delays and even have a small first-aid kit for your pet in case of any injuries while away from home,” Ratliff said.

Ratliff said, with the cold weather, it is also important to not leave your pets outside for too long.

“Setting an alarm on your phone when they are outside is wonderful to prevent any distractions from forgetting your pet in the cold,” Ratliff said.  “Watch their feet/pads and their skin for any signs of frostbite.”

Ratliff said that if there is any concern of skin issues from the cold weather, it is always a good idea to check with your regular veterinary office.

As Christmas is approaching, the idea of adopting a pet or gifting a pet is another important factor to consider.

Tammy Jaros, manager of Southway Animal Hospital, said that it is never a good idea to gift an animal during the holidays.

“A lot of mistakes people make around the holidays is to gift animals. Dogs and cats, other small mammals, such as rabbits, are often gifted during the holidays,” Jaros said.

Jaros said that if you are looking to adopt an animal, you need to consider the breed.

“Make sure it matches your lifestyle and your family’s lifestyle, otherwise you’re going to wind up in a difficult situation down the road,” Jaros said.

Ratliff said that if you are considering adopting an animal when you already have pets, you need to take their personality into consideration.

“Some pets seem to enjoy a single-pet household whereas some are more social,” Ratliff said.

Ratliff said that if pet owners have any concerns about their pet’s behavior or health, they can always check with their vet.