?The holidays are a special time for the whole family, including four-legged members. But in the midst of all the celebrating, it?s easy for pet parents to overlook the dangers facing their furry friends,? says Dr. Jules Benson, vice president of Veterinary Services for Petplan.
?Whether you?re hosting at home or traveling afar to enjoy the company of family and friends, keeping in mind a few simple precautions can help the season stay bright.?
Petplan has put together some tips to help pet parents avoid having holiday hazards ruin the joy of the season, including:
? Hold the Eggnog ? Petplan reports seeing spikes in claims for a number of food-related illnesses in the period around Christmas and Hanukkah, including a 151% increase in claims for poisoning from food; a 61% increase in claims for the treatment of pancreatitis; and a 52% increase in claims for hemorrhagic gastroenteritis. So be sure to keep the latkes and fruitcake on the table, and ask visiting family and friends to do the same. If you do wish to include your pets in the feasting, visit Petplan?s?Vets for Pets blog for healthy, seasonal recipes perfect for your pet.
? (Don?t) Haul Out the Holly ? Mistletoe, holly berries and tree water can all make pets very sick. Tinsel and gift ribbon, if ingested, can get caught in their intestines, often requiring surgery to be removed. Dangling ornaments and brightly glowing candles are attractive to curious kitties and canines, so consider your pet?s paws? reach when adorning your home for the holidays.
? Over the River ? ? According to the U.S. Travel Association, 18% of U.S. adult leisure travelers now take their pets with them on trips, so if Fluffy or Fido are going along to Grandma?s house, pack for your pet carefully. Print copies of veterinary records in case a vet visit pops up on the itinerary. Bring extra helpings of food ? if you run out on the road, you may not be able to find the same kind, and changes in diet can cause stomach upset. Always be sure to pack enough of your pet?s medications, as well.
? ? And Through the Woods ? If travels take your family farther afield, you may want to take some additional precautions. Use Petplan?s vet finder to scope out local vets, including emergency clinics, in case you need to detour for a vet visit. Make sure pets are microchipped and have up-to-date contact information on their collar tags, in case they decide to do some visiting of their own!? 12-18-11
? 2011 The North Country Gazette.?Please support The North Country Gazette with a subscription.? One month, $4.95; six months, $24.95; one year, $39.95.? Only one free read allowed per visitor.? Thereafter a subscription is required for continued or return access.
Source: http://www.northcountrygazette.org/2011/12/18/christmas_pets/
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