While celebrations offer great fun for children and adults, pet owners should also be aware that it can be a dangerous time for their companion animals.
Veterinary clinics and emergency centres caring for dogs (and cats) have seen pets that have gotten into trouble in any number of ways.
Pet owners should be aware of the dangers during celebrations and take steps to keep pets safe.
Many of the foods and treats people enjoy during festivities are toxic to dogs, and some can be deadly. Unlike cats, who tend to be picky eaters, many dogs will eat anything – including the wrapper and packing in which the treat is stored.
Here are some food and decorations to look out for:
Chocolate consumption in dogs is probably the most common problem veterinarians treat. Chocolate contains theobromine, which can be harmful and sometimes fatal to your dog.
The general rule on chocolate is that the darker the chocolate, the more danger it poses to a dog.
Baking chocolate and cocoa powder are especially potent and toxic to pets, which is why baked goods such as chocolate cookies, cake and brownies are a serious problem when ingested by dogs.
Also, the proportion of chocolate ingested to the weight of the dog matters, so smaller dogs have a higher concern for showing signs of toxicity, though dogs of all sizes can become affected if enough of the ingredient is consumed.
If your pet consumes chocolate, contact your veterinarian, a veterinary emergency centre or a pet poison helpline immediately. Prompt care can minimise the danger to your dog.
If your dog also ate candy wrappers or bags, it may present the additional problem of intestinal blockage. So, be sure to let your veterinarian know exactly what was consumed.
Many sugar-free products contain xylitol – also called birch bark. Xylitol is a sugar substitute that is toxic to pets. This ingredient is often used in sugar-free gum, candy and baked goods. It is also found in some toothpaste, peanut butter and other products. It is toxic to both dogs and cats.
Small boxes of raisins may be a healthy treat for children, but raisins and grapes are dangerous to dogs and can cause renal failure. Always keep raisins (and grapes) out of your dog’s reach. If your dog consumes raisins, call your veterinarian or veterinary emergency centre immediately. Prompt action can be helpful in reducing the risk to your pet.
Some dogs are so interested in the chocolate candy that they swallow the wrapper as well. Wrappers can become lodged in your pet’s throat or intestinal tract, requiring surgery to remove.
Your pet may look adorable in a costume but make sure anything you put on them fits properly and does not have any dangerous decorations such as beads, snaps, buttons, ribbons or elastic.
It should close with Velcro and be free of dangling parts or pieces that can be chewed off.
Additionally, costumes can lead to overheating. Never leave your dog unattended while he’s wearing clothing or other decorative items.
It is important to remember that even the calmest dogs can get scared. It’s best to keep dogs (and cats) inside a room away from the front door when you have guests over to celebrate.
If you do venture out, always keep them on a leash, under the control of a responsible adult. – American Kennel Club/Tribune News Service
