Merry Woofmas from our Pack to your Pack

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas and one where we can once again gather together unrestricted with our family and friends. In all the preparation and celebration don't forget about your fur babies. Please take a moment to consider the following holiday tips which will help keep your dog safe, your stress level low and your Christmas merry!

Christmas trees and decorations are wonderful traditions, but they can lead to problems for curious canines. To avoid problems, be careful to:

• Secure the tree with a good stand and maybe some guy-wire support to prevent toppling.
• Use non-breakable ornaments near the bottom of the tree where your dog can reach to prevent potential disaster from an inquisitive canine or an over-active tail-wagger. Many dogs think ornaments are toys and want to play with them. (think about it - a tree FULL of BALLS!)
• Tape down electrical cords, or cover them up with a mat, as a pup that chews on live cables could be electrocuted. Not only that, remember that batteries will be corrosive to their mouths if ingested.
• Before placing a present under the Christmas tree, always ask the gift giver if the package contains a food item. A dog is going to know exactly when there's food inside and those gourmet chocolates may entice them to open the present before you do!
• The increased number of new items in the house may cause pets to urine-mark. Be watchful of the tree and presents as targets.

Makes sure your dog's holiday feast is not their last:

• Keep holiday treats out of your pet's reach. Chocolate, alcohol, onions, grapes, macadamia nuts, tea and coffee are dangerous if ingested.
• Cooked turkey and chicken bones are a major choking hazard for dogs. Any cooked bones become very brittle and will break into sharp shards that can easily get stuck in a dog's mouth or throat leading to major medical issues. Discard all cooked bones securely so your dog can't sniff them out when you are not looking.
• The kitchen garbage contains food and food packaging that can be enticing, yet harmful to your dog. Do your dog a favour and remove the temptation to a secure bin or put it behind a closed door or in the garage. It is worth it if your dog stays healthier and you have one less potential mess to clean up.

When you're entertaining, the odds are greater that your pet will be accidentally stepped on, tripped over, let out of the house or get into something they shouldn't when you are otherwise occupied.

• Provide your dog with a safe and comfortable place such as a crate or quiet room, away from holiday dangers, disrupted schedules and the stress of unfamiliar guests.
• If the garage is the dog's location, make certain that chemicals and fertilizers are not within the dog's reach. Also ensure they are comfortable with their favourite bed and toys.
• Keep lots of fresh water readily available. Stressed pets typically pant more, so they drink more.
• Give the dog a bone! But stick with raw bones, or other bones specifically designed for dogs to chew.
• A new indestructible doggie toy may be better given on a busy day when you need the dog occupied rather than saved until the 25th.

By taking proper precautions, you can ensure the whole family enjoys a furry and bright festive season.

Hoping your Christmas is truly paw-some.

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