Jingle Bell Blues: Don't Let Your Pet Get'em

We're all concerned about the coming holiday festivities and how they'll affect our pets. PurinaCare® isn't the only pet company reminding pet owners that certain things are off limits. But, I like the way Dr. Bill discusses this issue, and I also think repeated reminders are necessary for all of us. Because we want to avoid those potential disastors - and each report has a little different spin, I think.

Here's what Dr. Bill says, "A routine and familiar environment is important to most dogs and cats. During the holidays pets may suffer from the constant changes taking place in their territory. There are new objects to explore - like holiday decorations, new plants and tempting foods. Being mindful of how your pet may react can make the season pleasant for everyone."

Back in the day, we didn't much consider the tinsle on the tree, or poinsettia plants, or the noise and the hustle and bustle of our gatherings, and how the cat or dog felt about those. We just...had our holiday and if the pet got into something, sad to say, we scolded him or her. Today, of course, if kitty eats tinsle - shame on you! But, more than that, I hope you have pet health insurance for the vet visit!

Ok, here are common holiday dangers from Dr. Bill:

• TASTES: Chocoalte (bad, bad, bad!), alcohol, raisin, Christmas tree preservative (who knew?)
• SCENTS: Candles, liquid potpourris - food?
• CHEWABLES: Holiday lights, electrical cords, batteries, Christmas tree presents (the last one is from me; our former cat loved to chew the wrappings and ribbons!)
• SIGHTS: Holiday decorations, ornaments, ribbon, foil wrapper paper
• SURROUNDINGS: Christmas tree (especially real ones, I think), American holly, Mistletoe

What should you be looking for? We have a list of those, too...

• Hyper-salivation or drooling
• Soiling the pet owner's belongings
• Chewing or scratching at doors or crate
• Non-stop howling, barking, meowing
• Tearing up furniture or pushing items off counters

Ok, some of our pets do this stuff all the time. If so, it means a visit to the vet or a behaviorist may be in order. To help you manage your cat and dog during this season, Dr. Bill recommends maintaining the normal leash/walking schedule, giving positive reinforcement with praise and proper treats when they're good, and just paying attention.

Good luck! Stay alert. Share any other ideas you have on how to keep your dog and cat safe this holiday season.