The holidays are a time for fun and family! At Mesa Veterinary Clinic and Paws N Hooves Mobile Veterinary Services we like to think of our clients as family and want them to enjoy their holidays. Even though we would love to spend the holidays with you, we would prefer to see your pets safe, happy, and healthy!
Decorating a Christmas tree can really bring on the feeling of the holidays. Although it is a well celebrated practice with humans, our pets have a hard time understanding. If possible secure your tree to the floor or supporting wall to prevent the tree from coming down. Also place all breakable items towards the top of the tree to help prevent breakage. Try to avoid using tinsel, ribbon and string as decorations because if your pet gets the wrong idea and tries to eat them you can find yourself at our clinic with an emergency situation!
Many different plants come out during the holidays that can make your home more festive and vibrant. Keep in mind that mistletoe, holly berry, poinsettias, lilies, and pine needles are all toxic to pets. If you have a real tree in your home don’t add chemical preservatives to the water. Many pets see the tree water as a convenient new water bowl and will unknowingly drink the toxic water.
For most of us the only thing better than the shiny lights is the amazing homemade food! Our pets have mastered the puppy eye look that will have us all wrapped around their fingers. It is easy to think that a little bit won’t hurt them; after all it is what they want! The problem comes when you give a little bit of everything and so do your guests. Keep ALL cookies, candy, macadamia nuts, walnuts, grapes, raisins, avocados, onions, garlic, fatty trimmings, any food with bones, and alcohol away from your pets. These are all toxic foods that can cause the following:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Lethargy
- Increased heart rate
- Tremors
- Seizures
- Even death
If you notice any of these symptoms give us a call immediately at 915-584-4491!
Most of all remember to have fun and enjoy this special time. There are many creative ideas out there for gifts for pets and pet lovers alike! For unique ideas make sure to follow us on Pinterest.