Welcome to the November 2006 issue of Pet Lovers Tips and Trends

 

It’s that time of year again. Thanksgiving! Family and friends gathered together to eat more food than any one human should consume. Naturally you’ll want to include your pets in the festivities and give them a little of this or a little of that but before you do, consider this. Many of the foods we eat with great enthusiasm are unhealthy and even harmful to our four-legged family members. Most dog owners know the dangers of giving chocolate to dogs. Chocolate contains Theo bromine, which is toxic to dogs depending on the quantity of chocolate and the size of the dog. A single Hershey’s kiss will do little harm to a medium size dog but a tea-cup poodle is a different story. If you have guests coming to  dinner who are not familiar with your animals or what they are allowed to eat, inform them of the rules when they arrive and allow them time with the pet to become acquainted. Signs to look for if you think your pet may have ingested chocolate are irritability, increased heart rate, increased urination, muscle tremors, vomiting, diarrhea, restlessness and hyperactive activity. Contact your vet immediately, or search for a veterinarian in your area.

 

Turkey skin is very hard to digest and can cause acute pancreatitis. The symptoms of this condition can be very mild at first and you may not even realize something is wrong until it’s too late. Also know that potato skins, gravy and onions (raw or cooked) can be toxic to your pet. Those festive bowls of mixed nuts should also have warning signs on them for our pets. The shells can breakup and get lodged in their throats. When dinner is over and before sleep sets in, don’t forget to clean up and secure all food waste in a sealed container. Dogs have the best sense of smell in the world and will go out of their way for the bones or scraps if they are not properly disposed of. You will feel compelled to give them a treat, with their adoring eyes begging you to drop something, but remember,  the best treat you can give them is a safe and healthy holiday. Their usual fare served along with the family and love is all they need.

 

Happy Holiday’s from our family to yours.

 

 

 

Be sure to check out our new blog for daily pet tips at http://animalshelter.wordpress.com

 

Please remember to visit our site at www.animalshelter.org

Donia

Pet Lovers Tips and Trends
AnimalShelter.org