Protect Your Pet from Holiday Hazards in North Austin

The holidays are fast approaching! Residents of North Austin and Pflugerville will soon be hanging holiday decorations and making plans with family and friends. The holidays may be a time of great joy, but it's important to remember that they can also be a time of danger for household pets. Knowing what to look out for and how to protect your pet can help you avoid unfortunate accidents this holiday season.

• Decorations. You aren't the only one who thinks your holiday decorations are beautiful and interesting--your pet does too. As soon as the shiny, beautiful ornaments go up on the mantel or the tree, your pet will be tempted to tear your decorations down and put them in his or her mouth. To prevent your pet from swallowing small pieces, put your decorations up where your pet can't reach them.
• Electrical hazards. If you've ever seen National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation, you know very well that some pets like to chew cords with bright shiny holiday lights on them. Keep your cords out of reach from playful cats and dogs.
• Poisonous plants. Don't forget that poinsettias are poisonous! Keep them out of reach from your pet.
• Small toys. Small toys can be just as temping to eat as shiny holiday decorations. Watch your pet carefully when gifts are being opened.
• Medications. If you're having relatives visit from out of town, make sure they keep their medications up and away from your pet.
• Foods. It may be tempting to feed your pet fatty holiday foods from the table, but many human foods can put animals in danger. Be careful not to feed your pet any foods that contain raisins or chocolate. Keep your pet away from meats that contain bones, and avoid giving your pet anything high in fat.

Finally, remember to keep the phone number for a trusted veterinarian on hand at all times. If something goes wrong, call Dessau Veterinary Clinic for advice or an exam.