All Things Canine-Behavior Consultations

12/19/2024

☠️ ⚠️ 🎄 12 DANGERS OF CHRISTMAS 🎄 ⚠️ ☠️

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🍫 1: CHOCOLATE TOXICITY

Chocolate can be very toxic to dogs, especially around Christmas when there might be more chocolate treats around. It's important to keep any chocolate products well out of your dog's reach.

If a dog ingests chocolate, it can lead to symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, rapid breathing, and even seizures, depending on the amount consumed and the type of chocolate. If you suspect your dog has eaten chocolate, it’s best to contact a vet immediately for advice.

❄️ 2: ANTI-FREEZE TOXICITY

Antifreeze is highly toxic to animals, primarily because it contains ethylene glycol, which has a sweet taste that can attract them. Even a small amount can lead to severe health issues, including kidney failure.

Symptoms of antifreeze poisoning in cats can include vomiting, lethargy, increased thirst, and seizures. If you suspect your cat has ingested antifreeze, it's crucial to seek veterinary help immediately, as prompt treatment can be lifesaving. Always ensure that antifreeze is stored securely and cleaned up spills to prevent accidental ingestion.

🎄 3: CHRISTMAS LIGHTS

Christmas lights can pose several dangers to animals. Pets, especially curious ones, might chew on the wires, which can lead to electrical shock or burns. Additionally, if they swallow any small parts or bulbs, it could cause choking or gastrointestinal blockages.

In addition to the risks of chewing on wires and swallowing small parts, Christmas lights can also create a tripping hazard, which could lead to injuries for both pets and people. If your pets are prone to being mischievous, it might be a good idea to limit their access to the area around the Christmas tree. Using cord protectors can also help reduce the risk of chewing.

🪴 4: TOXIC CHRISTMAS PLANTS

There are several Christmas plants that can be toxic to pets. Here are some common ones to be aware of:

1. Poinsettias: While not as toxic as once believed, they can still cause mild irritation to the mouth and stomach, leading to vomiting.
2. Holly: The berries can be toxic and may cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea if ingested.
3. Mistletoe: Both the leaves and berries are toxic and can lead to gastrointestinal upset and even more severe symptoms.
4. Christmas Cactus: While generally considered non-toxic, it can still cause mild digestive upset if eaten.
5. Amaryllis: This plant can cause significant gastrointestinal upset and other symptoms if ingested.

🕯️ 5: CANDLES

While they look beautiful in the window, and holiday scents are the best, animals have no idea of the dangers that a candle can present. Ways to ensure an accidental fire or burn doesn't occur are as follows:

1. Place all candles out of reach of pets.
2. Make sure candles are blown out when leaving the house or going to sleep.
3. If an animal gets curious, be sure to sternly tell them no, immediately

🍷 6: ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES

Alcohol can be very toxic to pets, including dogs and cats. Even small amounts can lead to serious health issues.

The symptoms of alcohol poisoning in pets can include:
1. Vomiting: Pets may vomit shortly after consuming alcohol.
2. Diarrhea: They may also experience diarrhea.
3. Lethargy: A noticeable decrease in energy or responsiveness.
4. Difficulty Breathing: Breathing may become slow or labored.
5. Uncoordinated Movements: Pets may seem wobbly or unsteady on their feet.
6. Hypothermia: Lowered body temperature can occur.
7. Seizures: In severe cases, pets may experience seizures.
8. Coma: Extreme cases can lead to unconsciousness or coma.

🎆 7: FIREWORKS

Fireworks can indeed cause significant stress for pets during Christmas and other celebrations. Here are some ways to help reduce their anxiety:

1. Create a Safe Space: Set up a quiet area where your pet can feel secure during fireworks.
2. Distraction Techniques: Use toys or treat dispenser balls to keep them occupied and distracted from the noise.
3. Comforting Sounds: Play calming music or white noise to help mask the sound of fireworks.
4. Stay Calm: Your behavior can influence your pet's anxiety, so try to remain calm and relaxed.
5. Try out calming products such as Feliway or Adaptil sold at most vets to help calm your pets down.
6. Consult Your Vet: If your pet is particularly anxious, ask your veterinarian about possible calming aids or medications.

😢 8: PANCREATITIS

Pancreatitis in pets can be a serious concern, especially during Christmas when rich foods and treats are often shared. Here are some key points to consider:

1. Symptoms: Look for signs such as vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, abdominal pain, and loss of appetite.
2. Dietary Caution: Avoid giving your pets fatty foods or table scraps, as these can trigger pancreatitis.
3. Veterinary Care: If you suspect your pet has pancreatitis, consult your veterinarian immediately for diagnosis and treatment.
4. Preventive Measures: Stick to a balanced diet specifically designed for pets, and limit treats to those that are safe and healthy.

🩻 9: FOREIGN BODIES

A foreign body is any object or material that is not naturally found in an animal's body and can cause harm if ingested or lodged inside. When a pet ingests a foreign body, it can lead to serious health issues, including blockages, choking, or internal injuries.
Foreign bodies in pets can be a significant concern during
Christmas due to the abundance of decorations, gifts, and food.

Here are some important points to keep in mind:
1. Common Foreign Bodies: Pets may ingest items like ornaments, tinsel, ribbon, and food wrappers, which can lead to blockages.
2. Symptoms: Watch for signs such as vomiting, diarrhea, lack of appetite, lethargy, or signs of pain. If your pet shows any of these symptoms, seek veterinary care immediately.
3. Preventive Measures: Keep small decorations and food items out of reach and supervise your pets during gatherings to prevent them from chewing on potentially harmful objects.
4. Emergency Care: If you suspect your pet has swallowed a foreign object, contact your veterinarian right away for guidance.

🍇 10: RAISIN TOXICITY

Raisin toxicity is a serious concern, especially during Christmas when raisins are often used in holiday baking and snacks. Here are some key points to consider:

1. Toxicity: Raisins and grapes can cause kidney failure in dogs, and even small amounts can be harmful.
2. Symptoms: Watch for signs such as vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, loss of appetite, and abdominal pain. These symptoms can appear within hours of ingestion.
3. Immediate Action: If you suspect your pet has eaten raisins or grapes, contact your veterinarian immediately for advice.
4. Prevention: Keep all foods containing raisins out of reach and educate family and friends about the dangers of sharing these snacks with pets.

🔋 11: BATTERIES

Batteries can be a significant hazard for dogs during Christmas, especially with the presence of electronic toys and decorations.

Here are some important points to keep in mind:
1. Toxicity: If ingested, batteries can cause chemical burns, gastrointestinal blockage, and other serious health issues.
2. Symptoms: Look for signs such as drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, or lethargy. If your dog shows any of these symptoms after potentially ingesting a battery, seek veterinary care immediately.
3. Prevention: Keep batteries and battery-operated items out of your pet's reach, and supervise your dog around decorations that may contain batteries.
4. Emergency Care: If you suspect your dog has swallowed a battery, contact your veterinarian right away for guidance.

🧅 12: ONION/GARLIC

Onion and garlic toxicity is a serious concern for dogs, especially during the holiday season when these ingredients are commonly used in cooking. Here are some key points:

1. Toxicity: Both onions and garlic contain compounds that can damage a dog's red blood cells, leading to anemia.
2. Symptoms: Watch for signs such as vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, lethargy, and pale gums. Symptoms may not appear until days after ingestion.
3. Immediate Action: If you suspect your dog has ingested onions or garlic, contact your veterinarian immediately for advice.
4. Prevention: Avoid feeding your dog any foods that contain onions or garlic, and educate family and friends about the dangers of sharing these foods with pets.

05/20/2024

This Adoption Fail Turned Out To Be The Most Well Rounded Dog!!!!

Wasn’t supposed to foster this female puppy. She was shuffled around and to my home with a few others from the litter. We had an adopter for her. Circumstances changed in their family and they could not adopt her.
So, we kept her as we looked for a forever home. Luckily, that forever home never came.
Almost 14 years later and Tigger has been the easiest, socialized, well rounded, obedient and tolerant dog we have ever had!
A small stature Pit Bull Mix girl has put up and taught great social skills to other foster and adopted dogs in our home. She worked with my dog aggressive client dogs when she was younger. Always up for any challenge and any environment.
Now at almost 14yrs old, Miss Tigger enjoys laying in the sun, camping and hiking. She is slower but is up for anything and always has such a sweet and tolerant personality.

So, just remember-The dog that was supposed to go to a different home in a month when she was a puppy ended up being one the best temperament and personalities in our home!!!

National Rescue Dog Day 2024

04/08/2024

Will the Eclipse Hurt My Dog?

Scientists have warned people not to look directly at the eclipse without special glasses, but you shouldn’t worry about going out to find canine-sized eyewear for your dog.

That’s because dogs don’t naturally look up or stare at the sun, according to Dr. Jerry Klein, the chief veterinary officer for the AKC. “They know enough not to,” he pointed out, and then adding jokingly, “That’s why they’re smarter than people.”

Most dogs only look up toward the sky if something flies overhead or catches their attention, Dr. Klein said. So, if the eclipse in your area is large enough to actually darken the sky, your dog shouldn’t be looking up to figure out what’s going on.

Will the Eclipse Stress Out My Dog?

Livestock and wildlife are more attuned to the sun and might react to an eclipse, but your dog probably won’t. However, if your dog does show signs of anxiety or stress, you shouldn’t worry too much. “The event only lasts several minutes, so it should be manageable,” Dr. Klein said.

But the bigger concerns for pets, are the anticipated mass gatherings. Millions are expected to travel and attend eclipse viewings that will likely provoke strong emotions in humans, which could unsettle animals.

Dr Klein, says that veterinarians are “more concerned” with the impact of human behavior and activity on pets during the event “rather than actually what the eclipse is going to do to the animals.”

01/13/2024

Be safe! Help check on your neighbor’s pets.
Being your animals inside to keep them alive in this weather!

Heads up. Next week will be deadly and brutal. Bring pets indoors. Check on others. Help where you can.