The holiday season is here again, and we would like to help you be prepared with these helpful holiday safety tips for your pets. For a more comprehensive guide on potential dangers during this festive time, check out our article on “Common Holiday Hazards for Pets – What You Need to Know“.

Avoid sharing food with your pets:

Fatty foods are hard for our pets to digest and may even cause a life threatening condition known as pancreatitis . Even a small amount of turkey skin or meat could be detrimental.

Put the trash away where your pets can’t find it:

Your holiday feast sitting out on the table, or left in a trash container that is open or easily opened, could be deadly to your family pet. Dispose of leftover meat and bones – and anything used to wrap or tie the meat, such as strings, bags and packaging – in a covered, tightly secured trash bag placed in a closed trash container outdoors (or behind a closed, locked door).

Be cautious with decorative plants:

Some holiday flowers and plants can be toxic to pets. These include amaryllis, Baby’s Breath, Sweet William, some ferns, hydrangeas and more. The ASPCA created a list of plants that are toxic to both, dogs and cats , but the safest route is to keep your pets away from all plants and table decorations.

Click the link below to view a list of foods to avoid giving your pets https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control/people-foods-avoid-feeding-your-pets

Please feel free to contact us, your local animal clinic in West Greenwich, RI! And remember, if you encounter any pet emergencies during the holiday season, our “Emergency Veterinary Care” service is available to help keep your furry friends safe and healthy.