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.
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