Holidays With Fido

It’s hard to believe, but the holiday season is upon us already! Keep your canine buddy in mind as you are preparing for seasonal events this year! Here, a local San Antonio, TX vet discusses holiday care for dogs.

Food

If there’s one thing Fido loves—aside from belly rubs, car rides, and toys—it’s food. Feel free to offer your pooch a special snack. Just make sure to stick to safe, suitable foods. Unseasoned, cooked meat, fish, or poultry is fine, as long as you remove the skin, bones, and fat. You can also give your pup some deli meat. A little cheese is fine, as are small amounts of bacon and sausage, or one or two cocktail wieners. Just don’t go overboard with these fatty treats! You also want to avoid giving your dog anything that contains garlic, onions, scallions, or chives; grapes, currants, or raisins; chocolate; nuts; pitted fruits; alcohol; or xylitol. Ask your vet for more information.

Presents!

Fido is an important part of the family, and definitely deserves a special gift. A new bed is a great gift, especially for older dogs or large breeds. Toys are also a safe bet. If your pooch is a senior, consider getting him pet ramps or stairs. Puppies, on the other hand, may need lots of fun toys.

Guests

Are you hosting any holiday celebrations this year? Do some fur busting before your guests arrive. Be sure to thoroughly dust and vacuum your home. We also recommend brushing or bathing Fido, and changing your air filters. If you know or suspect that any of your guests have allergies, set out some tissues, and stock up on OTC allergy meds. It’s also a good idea to lay down some basic rules. Ask guests not to feed or reprimand your canine friend without your permission. Better safe than sorry!

Hazards

This time of year can be dangerous to dogs. Many seasonal plants, such as poinsettias, lilies, holly, and mistletoe, are toxic to pets. Pine needles are another hazard. Ribbons, tinsel, lights, ornaments, and ornament hooks can also pose a threat to your canine buddy. Make sure Fido has lots of toys to play with, and keep anything that could be dangerous well out of paws’ reach.

Please call us, your San Antonio, TX vet clinic, for all your pup’s veterinary care needs. We are here to help!