The holidays are officially upon us! Between cooking, cleaning, decorating, shopping, and hosting or attending seasonal events, you may find yourself quite busy over the next few weeks. Don’t forget about Fido! In this article from Westside Animal Hospital, a Savannah, GA vet offers some tips on keeping Fido happy and healthy through the holiday season.

Food

Food is a key part of many seasonal festivities, and your pet will be more than happy to join in the fun. However, many seasonal foods are toxic to Man’s Best Friend. Some of the dangerous foods include garlic, onions, scallions, and chives; nuts; chocolate; pitted fruit; alcohol; grapes, currants, and raisins; meat on the bone; raw dough, meat, or yeast; and anything that includes xylitol. Ask your vet for more information.

Safety

As you may have noticed, Fido has a habit of chewing things. This can be quite dangerous around the holidays! Tinsel, ribbons, ornament hooks, electric lights, pine needles, and small or sharp decorations are all unsafe for pets, and should be kept well away from your furry friend. Candles are also a concern, as are fireplaces, space heaters, and potpourri burners. If you get a real tree, we also recommend covering the water bowl, as the water could be contaminated with traces of fertilizer, pesticide, and other chemical residue. Last but not least, keep seasonal plants, such as holly, ivy, and poinsettia, in a spot your pup can’t reach.

Gifts

Fido is not only super cute, he’s also very loyal, loving, and affectionate. Get that tail wagging by getting your canine pal some special gifts. Toys are always a great choice for dogs. If your pet is still a puppy, he may also appreciate a mechanical ball launcher, chew toys, or a comfy crate. Older pups may prefer soft beds, raised dishes, thermal blankets, or pet ramps.

Petiquette

Are you hosting dinners or parties this year? Help Fido put his best paw forward by giving him a bath and a good brushing beforehand. You may want to tire your pooch out with a walk or play session to burn off any excess energy. If your canine buddy has a habit of begging, keep him in a separate area with food, toys, and bedding during meals. Please contact us at Westside Animal Hospital, your Savannah, GA vet clinic, for your dog’s veterinary care needs. We’re here to help!