With the holiday season in full swing, many people may be scrambling to finalize plans for the weekend ahead while double-checking their various lists, including the following list of veterinarian-provided tips for protecting your pets during the holiday season.
Beware of Holiday Foods
As you prepare your holiday feasts and sweets, remember not to share any with your pet, as the American Veterinary Association (AVMA) says many can be hazardous for their health. The AVMA adds that the most dangerous foods are chocolates, sweets, baked goods, turkey, table scraps, and yeast dough. Rather than risk an emergency trip to their veterinarian, give them treats made explicitly for them, whether store-bought or homemade. In addition, because accidents happen, it is essential to have the ASPCA Poison Control Hotline number – 888-426-4435 – readily available.
Seat Belts During Travels Please
AAA estimates that more than 100 million people will travel by car. Another nine million will choose other forms of transportation as they depart for holiday destinations between December 23 and January 2. Those planning to hit the road with their pets should take specific precautions to keep them safe yet comfortable, such as adequately restraining them in a carrier or with a safety harness, which also helps prevent distractions. Whichever you choose, the American Veterinary Association (AVMA) recommends placing your pet in an area free of airbags.
Comfort Them on New Year’s Eve
New Year’s Eve brims with celebrations, often with fireworks and noisemakers as the clock strikes midnight, which is particularly frightening for your pets. The best way to comfort them is to find a room in your home that is preferably free of windows, such as a bathroom, where you can set them up with their bed, water, food, and favorite toys. You may also want to consider using a device that creates white noises to soothe them. Finally, if you plan on ringing in the New Year at home, consider sitting with them and comforting them to reduce stress.
Consult Your Veterinarian Specialist Today
As temperatures drop this winter, the symptoms of canine hip dysplasia (HD) may become more pronounced, potentially impacting your pet’s holiday spirit. In addition, suppose more conservative treatment options are no longer effective at minimizing your pet’s discomfort, regardless of the season. In that case, you may want to consider speaking with your veterinarian specialist about a total hip replacement (THR).
Global Veterinary Specialists recognize that dogs and cats encounter orthopedic injuries, disabling difficulties, and diseases impacting their quality of life. As such, our board-certified veterinary surgeons are committed to restoring pain-free mobility by treating hip dysplasia and other conditions, such as secondary osteoarthritis, to enable your pet to go on to live a healthy and happier life.
The board-certified veterinary surgeons at Global Veterinary Specialists have extensive veterinarian and surgical experience, so you can be assured that your pet is receiving compassionate and comprehensive care for whichever orthopedic condition ails them. Create a life without limitations for your pet by contacting Global Veterinary Specialists today to learn more about the available treatment options for hip dysplasia.
From the GVS family to yours, we hope you and your pets have a happy and safe holiday season!
Resources:
“Animal Poison Control.” The ASPCA.
Edmonds, Ellen. “’ Tis the Season: More than 109 Million Americans to Travel for the Holidays.” AAA Newsroom, December 14, 2021.
“Winter holiday pet safety.” American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA).
