The Caring, Compassionate Vets

1286 W. Chandler Blvd.

Chandler, AZ 85224

(480) 963-3003

If you plan to take your with you during holiday visits, make sure that your pet is welcome first (with all the activity, it may be better to board your pet or hire a sitter.  Holiday treats, such as rich, fatty food scraps, bones from fish, pork, and poultry, alcoholic beverages, and chocolate, can be harmful or toxic to pets.  Do not allow friends and relatives to give your pet special treats.  It could ruin everyone’s holiday (including your veterinarian’s).  Do not allow pets to play with ribbons, yarn, or six-pack beverage holders and don’t put ribbons or yarn around your pet’s neck.  If you want to decorate your pet, invest in a holiday collar.  These last for many years, are more attractive, and are a lot safer.  Cover or tack down electrical cords.

HOLIDAY SAFETY TIPS

The holiday season is a time for celebration, but can also be a time for celebration, but can also be a time of trouble for your family pet.  For example, mistletoe and artificial snow are poisonous; Christmas ornament fragments can perforate the stomach; string, ribbon, and tinsel if swallowed may cause painful intestinal problems, frayed light cords cause shock or burns.   Don’t spoil your holiday with a medical emergency.

ROAMING CATS

Roaming cats, as well as house pets and wildlife, may climb onto vehicle engines for warmth during cold weather.  Be sure to check under the hood before starting your vehicle and honk the horn to startle any animals seeking shelter inside. 

TOXIC PLANTS & HOLIDAY/WINTER PRODUCTS

Plants and other items associated with the winter and holiday season can be toxic to your pets. What follows is a general guide.  Please consult your veterinarian, animal poison control, and the manufacturer for specifics.  Remember, the earlier you seek treatment, the better for your pet.

LOW TOXICITY – poinsettia leaves/stems; balsam/pine/cedar/fir; angel hair (spun glass); Christmas tree preservatives; snow sprays/snow flock; tree ornaments; super glue; Styrofoam; icicles (tinsel); and crayons/paints.

MODERATE TOXICITY – fireplace colors/salts; plastic model cement; moderate to high toxicity holly berries and leaves; bubbling lights (methylene chloride); snow scenes (may contain salmonella); aftershaves/perfumes/alcoholic beverages; and chocolate (dark is the most toxic than milk).

HIGH TOXICITY– mistletoe (especially berries); epoxy adhesives; and antifreeze.  Please note that some items have special problems.  For example, whereas angel hair is usually considered to be of low toxicity, it can irritate eyes and skin.

Chandler Small Animal Clinic, a subsidiary of Chandler Pet Clinic 

1286 W. Chandler Blvd. Chandler, AZ 85224 (480) 963-3003