Autumn is a wonderful time of the year. It brings cooler weather and pumpkin spiced treats galore. People everywhere gather together with friends and family to visit pumpkin patches or go apple picking, and Thanksgiving is just around the corner. It’s no wonder so many look forward to it every year. But as wonderful as fall might be, it can be hard on pets. Below, we’ll discuss four specific dangers pets face during the autumn season.
Candles
Candles can give your home the perfect ambiance during a dinner party or Thanksgiving meal. They can often be found in centerpieces and on various surfaces throughout the house. There’s no denying their beauty, but they also come with their own set of risks, especially if you have a dog in the home. Pets can accidentally bump into furniture or the candle itself, resulting in severe burns and the risk of a house fire. When buying candles, check the label. Some candles pollute the air with chemicals and can be irritating to your dog’s lungs. They aren’t great for you to inhale either. When choosing this year’s candles, look for natural ingredients like soy wax or beeswax. And keep your candles in secure, safe locations when lit.
Holiday Plants
If you like making a table or counter look holiday perfect with stunning centerpieces, keep in mind that some plants that are safe for you can be potentially poisonous to your pet. If you’re getting ready to buy Christmas decorations, remember that poinsettias can cause both oral irritation and gastrointestinal upset when eaten or even chewed on by your furry friend. That’s not the only Christmas danger. Chrysanthemums, holly, and mistletoe can also make pets sick. If you have cats, be especially careful of lilies. While they are beautiful flowers, ingestion can result in sudden kidney failure and death. To be safe, keep all holiday plants out of reach and away from surfaces that can be easily knocked over. If your pet comes in contact with them, call your vet immediately.
Thanksgiving Food
Thanksgiving dinner is something we think about and dream of for weeks before the big day. It’s a time to gather together with family, reflect on what you’re thankful for, and eat an abundance of delicious food and dessert. Thanksgiving dinner allows you to indulge in your favorite dishes, whether it’s your grandma’s pumpkin pie or your mom’s green bean casserole, but it’s best not to share Thanksgiving delectables with your pets. When dogs eat too many high-fat foods they become at risk for developing pancreatitis, a painful and potentially fatal inflammation of the pancreas. It might be tempting to let your dog gnaw on leftover turkey, especially the leg, but these bones aren’t the safe bones you buy at the pet store. Turkey bones can splinter while your dog chews on them, resulting in gastrointestinal damage. It’s similar to swallowing a knife. Keep in mind when eating and cooking that certain ingredients are harmful to your pup as well. Garlic, onions, raisins, and nutmeg are all potentially toxic and should be kept far away from your pup as you’re preparing your signature dish. If you notice your pet acting lethargic, or if he is vomiting or has diarrhea, you should consult your vet immediately. It could be a sign that they’ve ingested something they shouldn’t.
Holiday Visitors
The holidays are a time for family gatherings and fun parties. It’s a joyous season filled with love and laughter, but you should keep an eye on your pet during the festivities. With so much going on, it’s only natural for your dog to feel the need to explore. Encourage guests not to leave their bags or belongings within reach of the dog. If your pet gets into a visitor’s purse, he could find sugar-free gum, which can be toxic to dogs. He could also come across Ibuprofen, which can lead to renal failure when ingested. Cosmetics sometimes contain alcohol, which is very dangerous for your pet. If you notice your pet acting unusual, watch for signs of lethargy, vomiting, or diarrhea. If you notice these symptoms call your vet immediately. Purses aren’t the only cause for concern during large gatherings. So many people inside your home can cause stress for your dog or cat. It’s best to keep them in a safe, quiet place so they can relax in peace. This also prevents them from escaping as the door frequently opens and closes.
The autumn season should be enjoyed by both you and your pet. Knowing these fifteen dangers will help you ensure your pet is safe and relaxed during the holidays. If things don’t go according to plan, and your pet gets into something he shouldn’t, always contact your vet right away.
