11/27/2024
Sharing some Holiday Pet Safety tips from
Maritime Veterinary Emergency and Specialty Centre - MVESC:
Tips to Keep Your Pet Safe This Holiday Season
The holiday season brings joy and celebration, but it also comes with distractions and potential hazards for pets. To avoid emergencies, follow these tips from Maritime Veterinary Emergency and Specialty Centre (MVESC) to keep your pet safe and comfortable.
1. Plan Holiday Pet Travel Early
Vet Visit: Ensure your pet is healthy, up-to-date on vaccinations, and has any necessary travel documents. Discuss anxiety or motion sickness solutions with your vet.
Boarding Reservations: Book early, as spots fill up quickly during the holidays.
Packing List: Include essentials like food, medications, a leash, ID tags, and a favorite toy.
2. Pet-Proof Your Holiday Decorations
Secure the Christmas Tree: Anchor it to prevent tipping accidents.
Fragile Ornaments: Use shatter-proof ornaments and keep them out of reach to avoid injuries or blockages.
Electrical Cords: Use protectors or unplug cords when unsupervised.
Pet-Safe Plants: Avoid toxic plants like mistletoe and poinsettias; opt for safer alternatives.
Tinsel: Keep it away from cats to prevent intestinal blockages.
3. Prepare for Holiday Hustle and Bustle
Microchip Your Pet: Helps ensure a lost pet is returned quickly.
Quiet Spaces: Create a safe retreat with bedding and toys for overwhelmed pets.
Vet Advice: Ask about anxiety medications if your pet struggles with holiday stress.
4. Prevent GI Issues from Holiday Foods
Keep harmful foods like turkey skin, ham, bones, chocolate, onions, xylitol, and alcohol out of reach. Even small amounts can cause serious health problems.
Despite careful preparation, accidents can happen. If your pet encounters a holiday hazard, contact MVESC for immediate assistance.