Make It a Safe Holiday for Pets

DEM Blogger

December 20, 2019

Holidays bring together family and friends, but it also can create some hazards for pets. Holiday food needs to be kept away from pets, and pet owners who travel need to either transport their pets safely or find safe accommodations for them at home. Follow these tips to keep your pets healthy and safe during the holiday.

As a general rule, keep pets – and young children – out of the kitchen while you’re cooking. Hot pans, ovens and food preparation areas are no place for pets trying to seek a scrap or something you dropped on the floor.

The best thing to do is purchase some pet-friendly treats and keep your pets occupied while you and your family enjoy your holiday dinner. While a piece of boneless turkey or sweet potato shouldn’t pose a problem, other foods can cause severe distress and even death.

Here are some general rules for Thanksgiving dinner foods, beverages, desserts, snacks and your pets.

Alcohol

Any alcoholic beverage can cause vomiting, diarrhea, nervous system disorders, tremors and even death. If you suspect your pet has ingested alcohol and is exhibiting symptoms, call the Animal Poison Control Center immediately. https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control. Note: there may be a charge for this.

Chocolate, coffee and caffeine

In sufficient amounts, pets can exhibit vomiting, diarrhea, panting, excessive thirst and urination, tremors, seizures and death. Dark chocolate is more dangerous than milk chocolate.

Grape and Raisins

These fruits can cause kidney failure in dogs.

Nuts and Macadamia Nuts

Nuts, including almonds, pecans, and walnuts contain high amounts of oils and fats. These can cause weakness, depression, vomiting, tremors, pancreatitis and hyperthermia in dogs. Symptoms usually appear within 12 hours of ingestion and can last up to two days.

Onions, Garlic and Chives

These vegetables and herbs can cause gastrointestinal irritation and lead to red blood cell damage in dogs.

Raw/Undercooked Meat, Eggs and Bones

Any raw meat can contain bacteria such as Salmonella and E. coli that can be harmful to pets and humans. Raw eggs can cause a skin and coat problem in dogs. Raw bones can splinter and cause choking or bleeding issues in pets.

Stuffing

The onions, garlic, seafood and other ingredients in stuffing can lead to digestive distress in dogs and cats.

Xylitol

This is an artificial sweetener used in products, including gum, candy, toothpaste and baked goods. It causes an insulin release in most pets that can lead to kidney failure and death.

Yeast Dough

Any type of bread dough can rise and cause gas to accumulate in your pet’s stomach and digestive system. It can be a painful and life-threatening condition.

More helpful hints from the American Veterinary Medical Association

More pet safety tips from the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA)