Holidays are a fun time for humans and their furry friends. However, it's also essential to keep them safe during the celebration. Summit Dog and Cat Hospital in Summit, NJ, is here with tips to keep your pup happy and healthy during the holidays.
Holidays usually mean parties or events with several guests. These events are exciting, but they can be overwhelming for some dogs. Even dogs, usually comfortable with others, can feel nervous or anxious around crowds.
You can help your pup by giving them a quiet space to retreat if necessary. You can allow them to go in and out of the room if they are socialized well. If they show signs of anxiety or aggression, keep them in the room until the guests leave.
Holiday decorations pose a hazard for your dog. If you have a Christmas tree, you'll need to tether it to the ceiling. This tactic will prevent an energetic or curious pooch from knocking the tree over, which could injure them. Also, dogs love to explore the world with their mouth, so be sure they aren't eating pine needles or decorations.
Placing bell ornaments on the lower levels of the tree can let you know if your dog is checking out the tree, so you can prevent them from snacking on your ornaments.
Traditional holiday plants, like mistletoe and holly, are toxic to dogs. Poinsettias are mildly poisonous and can cause diarrhea and vomiting. Ensure these plants are out of reach.
Some foods that humans enjoy around the holidays are toxic to dogs. You'll want to avoid giving your dog chocolate, grapes, or nuts. Sugarless items like gum can contain xylitol, which is also highly toxic. Ensure guests aren't feeding these items to your dog, and avoid placing them under the tree as gifts.
Summit Dog and Cat Hospital in Summit, NJ, can provide routine and emergency care for dogs and cats. If your pup has a holiday accident or needs a wellness exam, contact us at (908) 273-2200 to schedule an appointment with our veterinarian.
Holidays are a fun time for humans and their furry friends. However, it's also essential to keep them safe during the celebration. Summit Dog and Cat Hospital in Summit, NJ, is here with tips to keep your pup happy and healthy during the holidays.
Holidays usually mean parties or events with several guests. These events are exciting, but they can be overwhelming for some dogs. Even dogs, usually comfortable with others, can feel nervous or anxious around crowds.
You can help your pup by giving them a quiet space to retreat if necessary. You can allow them to go in and out of the room if they are socialized well. If they show signs of anxiety or aggression, keep them in the room until the guests leave.
Holiday decorations pose a hazard for your dog. If you have a Christmas tree, you'll need to tether it to the ceiling. This tactic will prevent an energetic or curious pooch from knocking the tree over, which could injure them. Also, dogs love to explore the world with their mouth, so be sure they aren't eating pine needles or decorations.
Placing bell ornaments on the lower levels of the tree can let you know if your dog is checking out the tree, so you can prevent them from snacking on your ornaments.
Traditional holiday plants, like mistletoe and holly, are toxic to dogs. Poinsettias are mildly poisonous and can cause diarrhea and vomiting. Ensure these plants are out of reach.
Some foods that humans enjoy around the holidays are toxic to dogs. You'll want to avoid giving your dog chocolate, grapes, or nuts. Sugarless items like gum can contain xylitol, which is also highly toxic. Ensure guests aren't feeding these items to your dog, and avoid placing them under the tree as gifts.
Summit Dog and Cat Hospital in Summit, NJ, can provide routine and emergency care for dogs and cats. If your pup has a holiday accident or needs a wellness exam, contact us at (908) 273-2200 to schedule an appointment with our veterinarian.
Monday - Friday
8:00 am - 12:00 pm
1:00 pm - 6:00 pm
Saturday
8:00 am - 2:00 pm
Sunday
Closed