Thanksgiving is dedicated to family, being grateful, and of course, food.
Here at Animal Emergency Hospital Volusia, we want our pet families to enjoy the holidays at home and not at the ER. Here are our tips on how to safely enjoy Thanksgiving and the long weekend with your pets.
Do Not Share Table Food with your Dog or Cat
While you are preparing all those yummy holiday trimmings, Fido might be begging right beside you. Even though it can be tempting, do not feed your pets human food, as many traditional dishes can be dangerous for both dogs and cats.
- Turkey skin is extremely fatty, and even a tiny amount of fatty foods can cause pancreatitis in animals – a life-threatening condition indicated by vomiting, lack of appetite, and belly pain.
- Bones can quickly get stuck in the throat or damage the digestive tract. Both are life-threatening conditions that often require emergency surgery.
- Garlic, onions, grapes, raisins, alcohol, dairy products, salt, sugar, yeast dough, and chocolate are all extremely toxic to pets.
- Pies and other sweets often include an artificial sweetener called Xylitol that is fatal to pets even in small doses.
Don’t forget the trash, keep the lid tight, and store away from your pet.
Keep the Holiday Décor Out of Your Pets’ Reach
Unfortunately, many plants and flowers commonly used decoratively during the holidays are toxic to pets, including amaryllis, some ferns, hydrangeas, and others. Here in Florida, our year-round plants like Sago Palm and their seeds are toxic and can be fatal if ingested. Additionally, open flames, including candles, can lead to singed tails or can easily be knocked over by a curious cat. We suggest using artificial floral arrangements and flameless candles for your holiday décor.
Make Anxious Dogs and Cats Feel Safe and Comfortable
Not all pets are party animals, and for some, even a few visitors can lead to stress and anxiety. Keep anxious dogs and cats in a separate room with a safe toy, their favorite treats, and a bed or blanket so they can relax. Before visitors arrive, make sure to give your pets plenty of attention, maybe an extra walk in the morning with your dog or a bit more playtime with your kitty’s favorite feather – you might enjoy the extra time with your pet too.
Be Prepared for an Emergency
If you are heading out of town or leaving your pet at home, make sure your pets are wearing their ID tags, are microchipped, and all of their information is up to date. For pet families that are traveling, it is essential to research the nearest 24/7 animal emergency hospital along your route and at your final destination.
Happy Thanksgiving from AEHV
We hope you find the above pet safety tips valuable in your holiday planning. We are truly thankful for our clients and appreciate the confidence that they place in us to help them through their pet’s emergency needs. We wish you and your furry loved ones a safe and very Happy Thanksgiving.
Pet Emergency Care Day, Night and All Holidays
Animal Emergency Hospital Volusia is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, and yes, on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s. We are located at 696 South Yonge St. (US 1) Ormond Beach, FL 32174. We welcome your call anytime, day or night, at 386-252-0206.