Tips for Keeping Your Dog Safe During the Holidays
December 19, 2018
The holiday season has arrived! Here are a few tips to help keep your pet safe while you’re cooking up some figgy pudding and celebrating the season.
Where’d the Turkey Go?
To prevent curious (or stealthy) pets from getting into table scraps or your holiday turkey, keep them in a separate room with a treat of their own while you prepare or dine. This way, they get to enjoy a delicious snack and your festive feast is safe from unintended diners!
Pet-Safe Holiday Dishes
There are a lot of pet-safe foods that you can share with your furry friend during the holidays. Uncooked turkey, raw turkey bones and turkey gizzards are a great treat to add to your dog’s bowl. Raw veggies, like pumpkin or sweet potato, also make a festive addition to your pet’s meal.
Unsafe Holiday Foods for Pets
Although the festive season is about indulgence for many humans, and hey, who can blame us, holiday favourites like gravy or desserts are not a good option for pets. Cooked bones can splinter or shatter, which can lead to some dangerous consequences! Pets can suffer cuts to their mouth, throat, or intestines after consuming cooked bones. The ingestion of fatty foods can trigger acute pancreatitis, so avoid adding any roast drippings or turkey fat to your pet’s bowl. We know it can be hard to resist those big, loveable eyes, but both of you will be thankful you did!
If you notice any changes in your dog such as lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, increased water intake, drooling or excessive panting, monitor your pet closely. If these symptoms persist, contact your veterinarian.
Who Let the Dogs Out?
There’s lots of commotion around the front door during the holidays. With guests coming and going, it’s easy for a pet to slip outside. Keeping your pet in a secure location can help avoid any impromptu adventures through the neighbourhood.
From the Iron Will Raw pack to yours, we hope you and your pets have a safe and HAPPY HOLIDAY season!