Posts tagged "holidays"

Despite our best merry-making intentions, the holidays can be stressful for the whole family, pets included.

"The holidays are a dangerous time for pets," says Ann Hohenhaus, DVM, DACVIM, at The Animal Medical Center in New York City, who specializes in oncology and small animal internal medicine.

So what can you do to ensure this really is the most wonderful time of the year for your cat or dog? We spoke with Dr. Hohenhaus to find out about the most common reasons pet owners visit her emergency clinic during the hustle and bustle of the holiday season.

Top Holiday Dangers

1. Trash. Sure, you probably know whether your cat or dog is a garbage forager by now, and are normally very vigilant about keeping it out of your pet's reach, but during this busy time of year when unaware company can throw off family routines, a "pet is more likely to get in the trash," says Dr. Hohenhaus. There they'll find foods and other objects they shouldn't -- but will want to -- eat.

2. Unusual foods. Overindulging your pet with fatty treats, like gravy or too much turkey or ham, can cause upset stomach and even pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas). Onions, garlic and scallions can damage dogs' red blood cells. Symptoms you can expect include lethargy and red discoloration in the dog's urine. And as you probably know, chocolates are a no-no.

3. Decorations. The worst combinations are cats and tinsel, and cats and wrapping-paper ribbon, says Dr. Hohenhaus. Curious cats are likely to swallow these enticements, "which causes their intestines to bunch up, and cuts into intestinal wall, so cats can't pass food through the intestinal wall normally," says Dr. Hohenhaus. "It requires surgery to cut these out surgically." "Don't have icicle tinsel on tree at all," she cautions.

Holiday lights are also risky temptation to pets, according to the Washington State University's College of Veterinary Medicine website, which recommends humans, "check cords for any signs of bite marks, loose or frayed wires, proximity to the tree's water supply, or evidence of short circuits." Electrical shock that could result can cause burns, difficulty breathing, abnormal heart rhythm, loss of consciousness, and death, the website warns.

Here at Paw Nation, we know that every pet has a story, and it's usually a story their owners just love to tell. So we decided to hit the streets to ask pets (and their owners) about everything from how they were adopted to what was the naughtiest thing they've ever done. It's our new weekly series, "Pet On The Street." We hope you love it.

In this episode we learn how these folks celebrate the holidays every year. Who knows, maybe they'll inspire you to create a special St. Patrick's Day party for your pooch. And be sure to let us know what questions you would like us to ask and what cites we should visit!

The holidays are almost upon us, and many pet lovers will be hitting the road to celebrate the season with friends or family members. And along with any gifts, festive treats, and luggage, your pet may be coming along for the ride. Since no one wants to sit through hours of nervous whining or uncomfortable howling from their four-legged traveling companion, animals should be well prepared to make the holiday journey. Here's how.

Dog Travel in the Air
If you can't afford luxurious pet-exclusive airlines like Pet Airways, your dog may be flying to your destination in coach or, even worse, cargo. It's important to contact the airline when booking your flight to be well informed of airline instructions, and ensure you're flying on a day where the cargo temperature will be suitable for your pet to travel.

As for preparing your dog for the big day, "The best possible situation is to have a tired dog [when you board the plane] so he'll sleep for the flight," said Hughes. "Take him to a dog run, or take him on a long walk before going to the airport."

Hughes also says that it's important to be prepared when picking your dog up at cargo. "Have your dog's leash ready, and know where the potty areas are," she said. Ask airline personnel where exclusive "pet potty" areas are located before your dog deplanes, so you'll be ready to dash upon his arrival.

The holidays are a bittersweet time for animals. More families invite new pets into their homes than any other time of year, but unfortunately, most of these new furry friends come from backyard breeders and puppy mills.

Thankfully, Iams Home 4 the Holidays, founded in 1999 and going strong, is aiming to help adopt 1,500,000 pets this holiday season via non-profit shelters and rescue organizations.

In the past, animal-loving celebrities such as Diane Keaton and Kristen Bell have lent a helping hand to participating non-profit shelters, and this year, Oscar-winning actress Hilary Swank joins the ranks of animal ambassadors. While you may think this is Swank's first turn around the adoption block, you'd be wrong.

John van Zante, spokesman for the Helen Woodward Animal Center where the drive originated, tells Paw Nation that Swank has been involved with animal shelters and rescues since she was a teenager, and has two rescued dogs of her own.

Swank recently came out for a shoot at the Helen Woodward Animal Center and brought her dogs along. "Her dogs are part of her life," says van Zante. "That's who she is."

He did say there was one "problem" with Swank during the shoot, though -- she kept disappearing between takes to visit the animals at the shelter! "She went to the animal therapy center and met Harriet, our umbrella cockatoo; she worked with our medical staff to do an exam on a baby kitten. She was in the kennel with some puppies and of course she had to bring treats along. She really loves and cares about animals. It's just so genuine."

For more information, including lists of participating shelters near you, visit home4theholidays.com.