Chocolate-This time of year festively wrapped chocolates are left sitting around as decoration and, just as I do, dogs love chocolate. Unfortunately chocolate is not as healthy for dogs as it is for humans (wink, wink). Over consumption of chocolate can lead to GI upset and potentially liver failure. In particular bakers chocolate is especially bad for dogs and is often used in baked items this time of year.
Plants-Decorating with Poinsettias at Christmas is common and contrary to popular belief, they are not that toxic to animals. More common toxicities are holly, mistletoe, any lily variety, and rosemary. These plants are commonly used in various Christmas wreaths and bouquets and can lead to GI upset and/or kidney failure if ingested.
Tinsel- Cats love to play with the tinsel used to decorate the Christmas tree. Yes, watching them swat and chase the tinsel is cute, but if ingested it can cause a linear foreign body in the intestinal tract leading to the need for emergency surgery.
Cars-It may sound silly for me to say a car is "toxic" to a pet, but it deserves a little discussion. When I am called in for an emergency "hit by car," more times than not, the animal has been hit, rolled over or bumped by the car in the driveway. The holiday season, with people coming in and out of the house for parties, leaves ample opportunity for your dog or cat to sneak out the door. With increased cars coming in the driveway, this gives more opportunities for the animal to be struck by a car. Might I suggest confining animals who like to escape to a bedroom or if you are particularly worried, boarding them is the safest option.
Table scraps-We all know table scraps are not good for our furry companions and hopefully I do not need to preach about that here, but what I do need to mention is the garbage can. Lots of cooking will be done this Christmas season and therefore, lots of garbage will be made. When the party is over and the family has left, be sure to tie up the garbage bag and take it outside to the big garbage can. Dogs especially love to sneak into the kitchen trash in the wee wee hours of the night and binge. This can lead to pancreatitis and a lengthy, expensive stay at the vet's office.
These are just a few things to be mindful of this Christmas. Taking a few extra steps to help prevent accidents can keep the holidays merry and bright. However, if you do find yourself needing emergency veterinary services, call 229-432-3462 and you will be placed in touch with the veterinarian on call or for specific toxicity concerns, call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222, and if you see Santa this year, please tell him Wallace Anne wants a swing set and she has been a very good little girl!
Merry Christmas y'all!!