Janet Jones | Special to the 51暗网
So this is Christmas鈥� or at least it will be soon.
There are so many things to do to prepare and so many things to remember we sometimes forget about how the festive season will affect our pets.
Here are a few things to consider.
The disruption and excitement during the holidays can be stressful for some pets, especially those who are more nervous to begin with.
There are new things like trees and decorations which may be scary, parties and visitors can lead to stress and being in a boarding kennel, as sometimes happens over the holidays, causes anxiety in most pets.
It is important to introduce new things in a positive manner - be calm and slow and pair it with a treat.
This applies to new people too.
If you are having a party and you have an anxious pet then close them in a quiet area with a long lasting treat.
Before house guests arrive create a safe and quiet place for pets to retreat to where they are to be left alone.
If you are boarding your pet then make sure you take their own food (to avoid tummy upset), bed or favourite blanket and some toys.
Be sure to research the boarding kennel ahead of time and have your pet鈥檚 vaccinations updated if necessary, including kennel cough for dogs, at least two weeks before boarding.
There are also pheromone sprays, collars or diffusers and a range of natural products to help your pet stay calm during periods of stress that you may want to investigate.
It is very important that we are aware of, and attend to, our pet鈥檚 emotional health as well as their physical health.
Try to keep their schedule as normal as possible and their stress at a minimum.
Another thing to be aware of are things that may be dangerous for our pets.
Christmas treats, though rewarding to give, may cause vomiting and diarrhea, especially in animals with sensitive stomachs, so keep them at a minimum.
Dispose of the turkey carcass properly 鈥� it is not uncommon for a dog to eat the whole thing with sometimes life threatening consequences.
And remember that some things are toxic like chocolate and some nuts and never have these things where a pet can access them.
No box or wrapping paper will deter a curious or hungry pet. Make sure any extra electrical cords are protected from chewing, especially if you have a young animal or rabbit in the house.
Tinsel and ribbons are a particular favourite of cats and if ingested they will likely get stuck in the intestines causing the gut to bunch up and requiring emergency surgery to remove.
Also if you are making homemade gifts be careful with paints, wool, thread, glue, needles and the like.
It is amazing what animals will eat and I have removed these items from throats, stomachs or intestines several times over the years.
If you are thinking of getting a pet for Christmas then here are some considerations.
Always research any potential pet and be sure that whatever you choose will fit with your lifestyle and schedule.
Make sure everyone is on board with getting a new addition to the family and parents remember that you will be primarily responsible for at least orchestrating the animal care.
It is better to introduce the new pet after the holiday when everyone has more time and the house is safer and less busy.
A picture rather than an actual puppy on Christmas morning will be better for both pet and people.
Christmas is a fun, exciting and busy time of year - with a little care and planning we can make sure that it is great for our pets as well.
Take some time, relax and enjoy the season with your friends, family and pets.
Happy Holidays to all.
Dr Janet Jones DVM is the owner of the Jasper Veterinary Clinic, a full service clinic with a satellite clinic in Valemount, British Columbia. Call 780-852-5551.
