Holiday Season for Your Pets ~ by Katlin Lumpkin

This months Tid Bits is from Katlin Lumpkin, Teen Leader for the 4-H Dog Project in Kaufman County

    

 The holiday season is the busiest time of the year, not only for Santa, but for everyone else as well. This time of year brings lots of fun festivities, but we still have a responsibility to be good dog owners and protect our dogs health and safety. The holiday season may be the best time of the year, but it also comes with a taxing toll of many hazards.

    Throughout all the busy schedules you may have, it is vital that your dog sticks as near to their feeding and bathroom schedule as possible. There is sure to be other added stress factors and the stress of a change to their schedule shouldn't have to be an added toll on top of the large stack of stress.

    No matter how tempting, do not feed your dog table scraps. A change in diet could make your dog sick, not to mention all the hazards of the kitchen. For instance, turkey bones are extreme choking hazards for dogs.

    Poisons are lurking everywhere. Holly,mistletoe, and poinsettias are all very poisonous to dogs and are all very popular during the holiday season.

  The Christmas tree is a large factor in protecting your dog. The needles on live and artificial trees are indigestible. Be mindful of lights and ornaments on the lower layers of the tree. Avoid glass ornaments as much as possible, especially toward the bottom. Don't decorate with edible ornaments or things like popcorn string, dogs will knock over the tree and attempt to reach food.

  Electrical cords should be strategically placed so dogs are not capable to chew on them and get electrocuted.

  Be mindful when hosting a large crowd, your dog maybe put out of it's comfort zone. Making things as comfortable for your furry friend as possible should be your main priority. If your dog is uncomfortable with large crowds, seclude a room for your dog to stand until there are less people.

   Waggin tails are no friend of Candle flames. Candles should be placed in high places to protect your pal.

   Winter weather, especially in Texas is unpredictable, dogs should not be left outside for long periods of time during the cold weather. A dog whom is groomed, there coat will grow properly and properly insulate the dog to keep them warm. Dogs also need additional calories during the winter in order to regulate body heat.

   Rock salt, which is used to melt ice,irritates dogs footpads. Though in Texas, rock salt may not being needed, but if comes in contact needs to be washed from the dogs pads to avoid cracking and irritation.

  Be cautious of fireplaces and heaters. Proper precautions are in order to be able to enjoy the warm by the fire and your dogs company.

  Just like people, dogs are more susceptible to illnesses during the winter. Be observant watch your dog's behavior, and be aware of symptoms of illnesses.

   Considering all of his factors and doing the necessary precautions to keep your dog safe and healthy, you should have happy holidays with your furry friend.