JOIN THE DALLAS YMCA TURKEY TROT

Get your Thanksgiving Day started on the right paw with this fun, local pet-friendly Thanksgiving event by participating in the Dallas YMCA Turkey Trot. It’s an excellent way to burn off some calories before indulging in a delicious meal, and your pet will love the fresh air and exercise. Plus, proceeds often support YMCA programs in your community. Leash-trained dogs are welcome on the 5k run/walk and 8k run courses! Get out there and work up your Thanksgiving Day appetite with some fresh air and exercise. Proceeds help support YMCA programs in the Dallas area.

SHARE THE FEAST WITH PET-FRIENDLY THANKSGIVING TREATS

While it’s tempting to share the Thanksgiving feast with your pets, it’s crucial to be selective about what you offer them. Stick to foods that are safe and healthy for pets. For example, cats can enjoy small amounts of cooked meat, and some may even nibble on veggies. To ensure your dog has a pet-friendly Thanksgiving, check out our latest article for The Best Homemade Pet Treat Recipes.

CREATE PET AND KID-FRIENDLY FAMILY FUN

After the grand feast, many of us settle in front of the TV to watch football or Thanksgiving Day parades. Why not create entertaining games involving your pets and even get the children involved? For instance, you could turn watching football into an interactive game where your cat or dog tries to catch a treat each time the Cowboys score a touchdown. It’s a fun way to keep everyone engaged and active during the holiday. Try these other pet-friendly Thanksgiving activities:

Thanksgiving Puzzle Hunt for Pets:

• Set up a puzzle hunt for your pets with Thanksgiving-themed clues and treats. Hide treats or toys in various locations around your home and create clues related to Thanksgiving to help your pets find them. This interactive activity can engage your pets’ senses and keep them entertained.

Pet Thanksgiving Costume Contest:

• Invite friends and family with pets over for a Thanksgiving-themed costume contest. Dress your pets in creative and adorable Thanksgiving costumes and have a mini parade or fashion show. Award prizes for the most festive, funniest, or most creative outfits. It’s a great way to bring joy and laughter to your Thanksgiving gathering.

DIY Thanksgiving Paw Print Art:

• Create a memorable keepsake by making paw print art with your pets. Use non-toxic, washable paint to cover your pet’s paw and press it onto a canvas or paper to create turkey feathers or other Thanksgiving-themed designs. Let your pet’s unique touch adorn your Thanksgiving decor.

Thanksgiving-themed Agility Course:

• Set up a mini agility course in your backyard or living room with Thanksgiving-themed obstacles. Use pumpkins, hay bales, or even turkey-themed tunnels for your pets to navigate. It’s a fun and active way to celebrate the holiday with your pets.

POST-DINNER WALKIES

After indulging in a scrumptious Thanksgiving meal, take a leisurely stroll with your pets. It’s an excellent opportunity to burn off some of those extra calories and enjoy the crisp autumn air. Additionally, it’s a great way to introduce your dog to the neighborhood if they’re new to your home. Plus, you can use this time to wish your neighbors a happy Thanksgiving, spreading the holiday cheer.

EXPRESS THANKS WITH A PET GRATITUDE JAR

Thanksgiving is all about gratitude, and your pets undoubtedly hold a special place in your heart. Show them how thankful you are for their companionship by showering them with love and attention. Give extra tummy rubs or chin scratches, or spend some quality time practicing their favorite tricks. Your pets will appreciate the extra affection and care, and it’s a meaningful way to strengthen your bond.

Throughout the month of November, create a gratitude jar for your pets. Each day, write down something you’re thankful for about your pets and place it in the jar. On Thanksgiving Day, read these messages aloud to your pets as a heartfelt expression of your appreciation. You could also begin your gratitude jar on Thanksgiving and add to it for a whole year!

Remember to prioritize your pets’ safety and comfort during these activities, and always consider their preferences and needs. With these unique pet-friendly Thanksgiving activities, you can create lasting memories and strengthen the bond between you and your furry friends during the holiday season.

🐾 Donate to Local Shelters: Short on time, an easy way to help homeless pets for the holidays is to donate essential supplies like blankets, food, toys, and treats to your local animal shelters. These items provide comfort and enrichment to pets awaiting their forever homes. Check with your favorite rescue or shelter to see if they have an Amazon wish list, so you know exactly what they need most.

🏠 Foster a Homeless Pet: Consider opening your home temporarily is a selfless way to help homeless pets over the holidays. Fostering helps animals experience the love and care of a family, making them more adoptable in the long run. Foster homes are often in short supply during the holiday season.

🐶🐱 Adopt a Homeless Pet: If you have room in your heart and home, adoption is the ultimate way to help homeless pets . You’ll give them the gift of a loving family and a forever home. The gift they give back is priceless.

⏰ Volunteer Your Time: Many shelters and rescues need extra hands during the holidays and volunteering is a great way to help homeless pets. Offer your time to walk dogs, socialize with cats, or help with administrative or cleaning tasks.

📢 Spread the Word: Use your social media platforms to raise awareness about homeless pets. Share adoption stories, post pictures of pets in need, and encourage your friends and family to consider adopting.

🦃 Purchase a Ready-to-Eat Thanksgiving Dinner: Help homeless pets while enjoying a delicious meal. If you’re in the Austin area, you can order a ready-to-eat Thanksgiving dinner through our nonprofit partners, Pet Sitters Care and Rescue Market.  Chef Irvin has crafted a menu that will delight your family and friends.  Your purchase directly contributes to the welfare of homeless pets. Pet Sitters Care is a 501(c)3 nonprofit animal welfare organization founded by VIP Pets own Robin Perdue. Proceeds from meal purchases are used to provide homeless people and their pets necessary food, supplies and veterinary care. Available in servings for 2 or servings for 6-12.

🍰 Host a Fundraiser: Organize a fundraiser in your community to collect funds for local shelters and rescues. You can host a bake sale, a charity run, or a silent auction to raise money as a way to help homeless pets. Check with your local shelters and rescues to see if you can donate baked goods or desserts for charity sales and auctions.

🧶Create DIY Pet Toys: Creating DIY pet toys is a wonderful way to channel your creativity and spread joy to shelter pets in need. With a little effort and imagination, you can craft homemade toys that not only keep these furry friends entertained but also provide them with much-needed mental and physical stimulation.

For Dogs: Braided Tug Ropes

Crafting braided tug ropes is a simple yet effective way to engage shelter dogs in interactive play. Start by collecting old t-shirts or pieces of fabric that you no longer need. Cut them into strips, ensuring they are long enough to braid together. You can use multiple colors to make the toy more visually appealing.

Once you have your strips ready, gather them and tie a knot at one end. Then, begin braiding the strips together tightly. If you want to add a personal touch, you can attach a jingle bell or a squeaker to the middle of the rope for added excitement. Knot the other end securely, and your DIY braided tug rope is ready to provide hours of fun for shelter dogs.

For Cats: Cardboard Scratchers

Cats love to scratch, and providing them with a homemade cardboard scratcher can help fulfill this natural instinct while keeping their claws healthy. To create a simple cardboard scratcher, you’ll need a few pieces of corrugated cardboard and some creativity.

Start by cutting the cardboard into smaller, manageable pieces. Then, stack the pieces on top of each other to create a sturdy base. You can shape the cardboard into various designs, such as a flat scratching board or a curved surface, depending on your preference.

To make the scratcher more appealing to felines, consider sprinkling some catnip on the surface or attaching small feathers or dangling strings to entice their playfulness. Place your DIY cardboard scratcher in the shelter’s cat area, and watch as the kitties enjoy sharpening their claws while having a blast.

These homemade pet toys are not only cost-effective but also eco-friendly, as they give new life to old materials. By creating DIY pet toys for shelter animals, you’re not only providing entertainment but also showing your commitment to their well-being. Your efforts can make a big difference in the lives of these pets as they await their forever homes.

🏷️Sponsor a Pet’s Adoption Fee: Many shelters offer adoption fee sponsorships. Consider covering the adoption fee for a homeless pet, making it easier for someone to give them a forever home.

🐾 Support Trap-Neuter-Return Programs: Help control the homeless pet population by supporting trap-neuter-return (TNR) programs for feral cats. These programs prevent the birth of more homeless kittens. Many TNR programs need extra food and shelters built during the cold months.

This holiday season, let’s unite as pet lovers and help homeless pets in Austin and Dallas. Whether through donations, volunteering, fostering, adoption, or any of the heartwarming ways mentioned above, every act of kindness brings these animals one step closer to finding the love, warmth, and family they deserve.

And as we embrace the spirit of giving, remember that your furry companions at home need care and attention during the holidays too. If you’re looking for trusted pet sitting services to ensure your pets are well taken care of while you celebrate, don’t hesitate to contact VIP Pets. Our dedicated team shares your love for pets and will be there to make sure your furry family members are safe and content during this festive season.

Together, let’s spread warmth and love to both homeless pets and our cherished companions at home, making this holiday season truly special for all.

Fall is a time of year that many pet owners and their furry companions eagerly anticipate. As the air turns cooler and the days grow shorter, it’s a season marked by cozy sweaters, pumpkin-spiced everything, and the vibrant transformation of leaves into a riot of warm colors. However, just like any other season, fall pet safety should be a top priority, and it comes with its unique set of considerations for pet owners.

FALL PET SAFETY THREAT: MUSHROOMS

With the arrival of wetter fall weather, our yards and favorite outdoor spots might sprout a variety of mushrooms. While some are harmless, others can be highly toxic to both humans and pets. To keep your entire family safe and ensure fall pet safety, it’s crucial to become familiar with these fungi. Toxic mushrooms can sometimes be challenging to distinguish from their benign counterparts, so it’s wise to educate yourself on their appearance. Remember, even a seemingly innocent backyard can harbor dangerous surprises.

To maintain fall pet safety, consider arranging for dog walking services during the mushroom season. Professional pet sitters can keep a close eye on your furry friend, ensuring they don’t get into trouble outdoors.

FALL PET SAFETY THREAT: RODENTS

Fall’s arrival also signals the desire of rodents like rats to seek refuge from the cold. Unfortunately, they might choose your home as their cozy winter haven. While pest control is essential, it’s vital to prioritize your pet’s safety and fall pet safety. Traditional rodenticides can pose a severe threat to animals if ingested. Instead, consider pet-friendly pest control methods. There are numerous alternatives available, ranging from humane traps to natural repellents. By opting for these pet-safe solutions and emphasizing fall pet safety, you can effectively address your rodent problem without compromising your furry friend’s well-being.

FALL PET SAFETY THREAT: FLEAS AND TICKS

The cooler weather may give the impression that fleas and ticks have retired for the season, but don’t be fooled. These persistent pests can endure chilly temperatures and remain a threat to your pet’s health and fall pet safety. Continue your pet’s flea and tick prevention routine until the weather turns significantly colder. Regular checks for these pesky critters are essential, even as the leaves fall and the days grow darker. Maintaining vigilance in your pet’s parasite protection will ensure a comfortable and pest-free autumn, contributing to a seamless transition into the season.

FALL PET SAFETY THREAT: DARKNESS

As autumn progresses, the daylight hours wane, and the darkness of evening descends earlier. This shift in natural light can impact your pet’s outdoor activities and fall pet safety. To keep your furry companion visible and secure during evening walks, invest in reflective collars or apparel. These accessories not only enhance visibility but also add a touch of style to your pet’s fall wardrobe, ensuring fall pet safety. Ensuring that your pet is easily seen by passing vehicles and pedestrians can prevent accidents and provide peace of mind.

FALL PET SAFETY THREAT: HALLOWEEN HAZARDS

Halloween, with its whimsical costumes and candy galore, is undoubtedly a beloved holiday for many. However, amidst all the spooky excitement, it’s essential to recognize that this festive season can pose specific hazards to our furry companions. To ensure your pet’s safety and maintain the spirit of Halloween, here are some crucial points to consider:

CANDY CAUTION: A SWEET TEMPTATION

The allure of candy during Halloween is irresistible, not only for children but also for pets. While it’s tempting to share your sweet treats with your furry friend, it’s imperative to exercise restraint. Several common Halloween candies can be harmful, even lethal, to animals.

• Chocolate: Most pet owners are aware that chocolate is toxic to dogs and cats. It contains theobromine and caffeine, substances that can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, rapid breathing, increased heart rate, seizures, and, in severe cases, death. Dark chocolate and baking chocolate contain higher levels of these toxic compounds, making them even more dangerous.
• Xylitol: This sugar substitute, often found in sugar-free candies and gum, poses a severe threat to pets. Xylitol ingestion can lead to a sudden drop in blood sugar, vomiting, loss of coordination, liver failure, and seizures, which can be fatal.

To ensure Halloween pet safety, store candy out of your pet’s reach and explain to family members and guests the importance of not sharing treats with your furry friend. Be particularly vigilant about children who may not be aware of the dangers these sweets can pose to pets.

DECORATIVE DANGERS

Halloween wouldn’t be complete without eerie decorations adorning our homes and yards. However, many of these decorations can be enticing to pets, leading to potential hazards. Here’s what to watch out for:

• Fake Cobwebs: Those spooky fake cobwebs that create an eerie atmosphere can be irresistible to curious cats and dogs. In their attempts to investigate or play with these decorations, pets can accidentally ingest the synthetic material, leading to digestive blockages or other health issues.
• Small, Chewable Items: Many Halloween decorations feature small, chewable items like plastic eyeballs, mini pumpkins, or decorative spiders. These items can be a choking hazard or, if swallowed, may cause intestinal obstructions. Ensure that such items are securely placed out of your pet’s reach or opt for pet-friendly decorations.

FALL PET SAFETY THREAT: HOLIDAY FOODS

As the delightful Thanksgiving holiday approaches, it’s only natural to want to share the feast with our beloved pets. While including them in the festivities can be heartwarming, it’s vital to exercise caution and maintain their well-being. Here are some considerations to ensure your pet enjoys a safe and enjoyable Thanksgiving:

TABLE SCRAPS: PROCEED WITH CAUTION

It’s tempting to share your Thanksgiving meal with your furry companion, especially when they give you those irresistible puppy-dog eyes or endearing meows. However, not all holiday foods are suitable for pets, and some can be downright dangerous.

• Turkey Bones: While it might seem like a treat to give your dog a turkey bone, it’s best to resist this urge. Turkey bones can splinter easily, posing a choking hazard and potentially causing severe internal injuries if ingested. Instead, consider offering your pet small, boneless, and fully cooked pieces of turkey meat.
• Rich and Fatty Dishes: Thanksgiving dishes tend to be rich and indulgent, but these can wreak havoc on your pet’s digestive system. Foods like gravies, buttery mashed potatoes, and creamy casseroles are high in fat and can lead to upset stomachs, diarrhea, or even more severe conditions like pancreatitis.

THANKSGIVING PET SAFETY

To ensure your pet’s Thanksgiving is filled with joy rather than tummy troubles, here are some helpful tips:

1. Moderation is Key: If you decide to share some Thanksgiving fare with your pet, do so in moderation. Small, bite-sized pieces of plain, cooked turkey or a spoonful of plain mashed potatoes can be safe treats. Avoid seasoning or sauces, as these can be harmful.
2. Safe Storage: Keep all Thanksgiving dishes and leftovers securely stored out of your pet’s reach. This includes properly disposing of turkey bones and making sure trash cans are securely closed.
3. Educate Guests: If you’re hosting Thanksgiving dinner with guests who may not be familiar with pet safety guidelines, kindly inform them about what foods are off-limits for your furry friend. Politely request that they avoid feeding your pet from the table.
4. Create a Pet-Safe Space: If your Thanksgiving gathering becomes overwhelming for your pet, consider designating a quiet, safe space where they can retreat. Provide their bed or crate, some toys, and fresh water to help them relax away from the commotion.
5. Pet-Friendly Treats: To ensure your pet doesn’t feel left out of the holiday feast, consider having some pet-friendly treats or a special toy on hand to keep them engaged and happy.

FALL PET SAFETY THREAT: PILES OF LEAVES

As the vibrant hues of fall foliage blanket the ground, creating picturesque landscapes, it’s important to remember that while these leaves may be stunning, they can also harbor hidden hazards for your curious and playful pet. To ensure their safety and enjoyment of the season, it’s crucial to be mindful of the outdoor hazards that fall foliage can bring:

For many pets, the sight of a freshly raked pile of leaves is an invitation to bound and frolic. These leaf piles represent an enticing playground, but beneath their colorful surface, dangers may lurk. Here’s how you can navigate this aspect of fall pet safety:

1. Inspect the Pile: Before allowing your pet to dive into a pile of leaves, take a moment to inspect it thoroughly. Look for any sharp objects, sticks, or potentially harmful items that may have been inadvertently collected within the leaves. Remove any foreign objects to create a safer play area.
2. Supervision is Key: While your pet engages in leafy adventures, it’s essential to supervise their playtime closely. Keep a watchful eye on their activities, ensuring they don’t inadvertently discover something unsafe hidden among the leaves.
3. Leaf Critters: In the world of fallen leaves, small creatures can seek refuge. Insects, spiders, or other tiny critters may use the leaves as shelter. While most of these creatures are harmless, some can pose a risk to your pet if bitten or ingested. Therefore, it’s wise to discourage your pet from digging too deeply into leaf piles.
4. Leaf Ingestion: Some pets may have a habit of nibbling on leaves while playing. While most leaves are harmless, there are exceptions. Certain plants shed toxic leaves that can be harmful if ingested. To maintain fall pet safety, be aware of the plants in your area and discourage leaf-chewing behavior.

Fall is a delightful season, offering countless opportunities for you and your pet to revel in its beauty while maintaining fall pet safety. By staying informed about the seasonal hazards and taking appropriate precautions, you can savor all the joys of autumn while keeping your furry friend safe and snug by your side. So, embrace the fall season, knowing you’re well-prepared to make it a wonderful time for both you and your beloved pet.

For extra peace of mind and fall pet safety, consider enlisting the help of professional pet sitters and dog walking services. These services can ensure that your pet receives the attention and care they need during the autumn season, promoting a safe and enjoyable experience for both you and your furry companion.

Safe Foods to Feed Your Pets During the Holidays

As holiday feasting begins, there is no doubt our dogs will want to join in. Who can resist the smell of fresh bread baking in the oven and the feelings of love as everyone gathers around the table? Not us, and certainly not our pets. Being caught up in the moment poses a logical question. Can dogs eat bread?

While small bites of unbuttered bread are completely safe for our pets, the yeast in raw dough can be a digestive problem. There are several holiday foods that are unhealthy (or dangerous) for dogs, even though they may beg for them. But you won’t feel so bad about saying no if you have some tempting treats to offer instead.

Here is a quick list of foods your dog should avoid this holiday season, followed by some yummy alternatives that will have him joining in the celebration with you:

Avoid Feeding the Following Foods to Your Dog

1. Raw bread dough (the yeast can cause dangerous bloating)
2. Fat and trimmings from meats (this rich food can cause digestive issues)
3. Grapes (even small amounts can be fatally toxic)
4. Bones – especially cooked bones (can splinter and cause lacerations of the intestines)
5. Nuts – particularly Macadamia nuts and some walnuts (can cause toxic poisoning)
6. Unfermented dairy products such as milk or ice cream (the lactose can cause abdominal pain)
7. Onions – contain an ingredient called thiosulphate that is highly toxic to both dogs and cats.

Safe Foods for Your Dog

1. Cooked turkey (remove the skin)
2. Sweet potatoes (slice thinly and bake at 250 degrees for 3 hours for a crunchy treat!)
3. Cooked green beans (tasty and full of vitamins and fiber)
4. Cooked eggs (for a special holiday breakfast)
5. Plain yogurt – if your dog seems to tolerate it well (the probiotics can strengthen the immune system)

Our schedules fill up quickly during the holidays, especially Thanksgiving!

Whether you are going out of town or entertaining guests, book your VIP sitter now to make sure your pet is cozy and cared for throughout the holiday.

Schedule your Thanksgiving service by November 12th to take advantage of our early bird special for $10 off!

Your booking must include at least 4 standard or premium visits.

(Cannot be combined with other discounts or promotions.)

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1. Visitors.
   Problem: Unfamiliar people and extra noise and activity can be stressful on your pet if they are not used to having visitors. They may become overly excited (and forget their manners or dash out the door) or they may become frightened.
   Solution: If your pet shows signs of either extreme, let him spend time in a comfortable, private room with the door closed. If he has a cozy rug, some treats, toys and water, he can relax and de-stress.
   
2. Smells.
   Problem: Pets, especially dogs, can find strong odors overwhelming. Air fresheners, potpourri, and scented candles may be too strong for your pet.
   Solution: If you must use them, it is best to do so only occasionally and keep the areas well ventilated during use.
3. Exercise.
   Problem: As your schedule gets busier, you may find you are not exercising your pet as often as he needs (and he probably needs more exercise during the holidays – it’s a great stress reliever). Lack of exercise can cause behavior changes such as chewing on furniture, tearing up household items or even unwrapping gifts (causing YOU more holiday stress!).
   Solution: Plan for more frequent exercise sessions, and we can help! Just see our special discount below.
4. Rules.
   Problem: Don’t want Fido sharing the sofa with your guests? If you usually allow him on the furniture, he’ll be stressed and confused if you change the rules at the last minute. The same is true for begging at the table – not that any of us would ever allow that 🙂
   Solution: Use the quiet room idea from tip #1 above if your pet has some habits that might cause you stress while entertaining. He’ll be happy and so will you.

Our schedules fill up quickly during the holidays,
especially Thanksgiving!

Whether you are going out of town or entertaining guests, book your VIP sitter now to make sure your pet is cozy and cared for all weekend long.

Schedule your Thanksgiving service by November 9th and get $10 off!
Your booking must include at least 4 standard or premium visits.

Click here to get started, or leave your number and we’ll call you!

(Cannot be combined with other discounts or promotions.)

I love the ease of scheduling an appointment. Also love the consistency of the pet sitter – I like the security of knowing Trudy will take care of the pups with minimal instructions as we have an established relationship. -Luis G

 
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Because we adore our furry companions, many pet parents make the mistake of indulging our pets with human foods over the holidays. According to the PetMd website, 56 percent of the site’s readers admitted to sharing Thanksgiving table scraps with their animals.

To help you get through the holidays without guilt – and without making your cats and dogs sick – we have listed foods that can be dangerous to give to your pets and some treats that are safe. Happy Thanksgiving and healthy eating to all!

Dangerous Thanksgiving Foods for Pets

You’ll want to check your ingredients list for any prepared foods that might contain these elements used in cooking.

• Certain kinds of nuts can be toxic to pets. Macadamia nuts and some walnuts can cause toxic poisoning resulting in seizures and neurological damage. Pistachios, almonds, peanuts and pecans may upset the digestion system of your pet and/or cause intestinal obstructions (pecan shells and acorns are well-known sources of blockages). Vomiting, a loss of muscle control and lethargy are other symptoms of nut ingestion. Learn more about nuts dangers to dogs on the Veterinary Pet Insurance website.
• Chocolate in all its forms is highly toxic to pets. Typically, the darker the chocolate, the higher the risk of toxicity. Unsweetened baker’s chocolate contains large percentages of methylxanthines that can cause your animal to experience diarrhea, uncontrolled urination, vomiting, hyperactivity, heart arrhythmias, tremors, seizures and – if left untreated – can lead to death. Read more on chocolate toxicity here.
• The fat and trimmings from holiday meats (ham, turkey, lamb, beef roast) may be too rich for your pets and can create the digestive issues leading to such deadly illnesses as pancreatitis and “fatty liver” disease.
• Bones, particularly cooked chicken or turkey bones, can splinter and cause lacerations in your pet’s intestinal tract. Additionally, bones have been known to be the source of obstructions in the stomach and intestines of some animals.
• Garlic, chives, leeks and onions contain an ingredient called thiosulphate that is toxic to dogs and cats. Ingesting even a small amount of these vegetables can result in a hemolytic anemia that destroys the animal’s red blood cells. Signs of this toxicity include digestive upset (vomiting, diarrhea, nausea, drooling) as well as lethargy, pale gums, exercise intolerance, elevated heart and respiratory rates, weakness and collapse.
• Alcohol causes unsafe decreases in body temperature, heart rates, and blood pressure. Intoxicated animals can experience respiratory distress and seizures.
• Fruit toxins from grapes, raisins, peach and plum pits are deadly to both dogs and cats. Not only can the pits cause intestinal blockages, but peach and plum pits contain cyanide that an animal can ingest should the pit be chewed or broken open. Grapes and raisins can result in acute kidney failure in dogs; in small dogs, as few as 4 grapes or raisins may have an adverse affect on your pet.
• Milk and other dairy products can be too rich and upset your pet’s digestive system. Many small animals are lactose intolerant (lactose being the main enzyme found in cow’s milk). Diarrhea, flatulence, vomiting and abdominal pain can result.
• Nutmeg, a spice used in baking, has a rich, spicy scent that is attractive to dogs. High levels of ingestion can lead to seizures, tremors and other neurological issues that result in death.
• Raw eggs, accidentally dropped on the kitchen floor during baking, can be a great treat for dogs just waiting for a few crumbs. However, raw eggs may contain salmonella and E. coli bacteria, leading to painful cases of food poisoning for your pet. Additionally, excessive consumption of raw eggs can result in a biotin (water-soluble Vitamin B7) deficiency that affects your dog’s hair coat and causes skin problems.
• Rhubarb, a vegetable used in pies, contains oxalates that prevent the absorption of calcium. This substance triggers abnormalities with the kidneys, digestive and nervous systems in animals.
• Yeast dough, if ingested, releases gasses that swell and expand in your pet’s stomach and intestines, resulting in vomiting, nausea and diarrhea. Extreme cases can lead to “bloat,” a life-threatening condition that typically can only be resolved by surgical intervention. Some yeast dough also ferments into alcohol, which contributes to signs of lethargy and alcohol toxicity.
• Xylitol, a chemical sweetener commonly found in sugarless gum, children’s vitamins and diet candies, is extremely dangerous to your dog. Ingestion of a food product containing xylitol causes a rapid release of the hormone insulin that results in hypoglycemia and abnormally low blood glucose levels. Affected dogs experience vomiting, weakness and sometimes seizures, and, in some severe cases, liver failure. Xylitol is so toxic one stick of sugar-free gum can be poisonous to a 20-pound dog. Make sure your animals are protected by learning all you can about xylitol poisoning.

Digestive Issues

Veterinarians recognize that more animals show up at the vet clinic with digestive problems during the holidays than any other time of the year. While many of those pets have just a simple upset stomach, others are diagnosed with serious – and potentially life-threatening – diseases.

Foreign body ingestion and intestinal obstruction can be a very common problem for both dogs and cats at this time of the year. Blockages can be caused by uncooked bones, large amounts of raw meat, yeast dough, nutshells, as well as non-food items such as tinsel, wrapping paper and bows, and tree decorations.

Symptoms typically include repeated vomiting, an inability to swallow, diarrhea, dehydration and weakness. The pressure of the foreign body can cause painful stretching or bunching of the stomach and intestines and poor blood circulation to the tissues. Without immediate veterinary treatment, those tissues can die off and send the animal into shock. The walls of the organs can perforate and massive infection set in.

Pancreatitis is an inflammation of the pancreas that can be caused by feeding your pet foods high in fat. Animals that eat table scraps or who get into the garbage often find themselves with this painful condition. The symptoms of pancreatitis are similar to those of other diseases and may include a very painful abdomen, abdominal distention, lack of appetite, depression, dehydration, a ‘hunched up’ posture, vomiting, and perhaps diarrhea. Fever often accompanies these symptoms. As the disease progresses, affected pets can develop heart arrhythmias, difficulty breathing, sepsis, and body-wide hemorrhaging.

Hepatic lipidosis, also known as “fatty liver disease,” occurs mainly in cats after a change in diet or a bout with pancreatitis. Foods high in fats and carbs and low in proteins (desserts, breads, the skin and fat off meat dishes) are the chief culprits and should never be used as cat treats. Obese cats are the more typical victims of hepatic lipidosis. Symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, rapid weight loss, prolonged inability to eat, drooling, jaundice, depression and sitting so that the head and neck are stretched out and down. In the latter stages of this disease, the animal will collapse, go into shock, and die.

What CAN Pets Eat During the Holidays?

There are some holiday foods you can share with your pets as long as they don’t overindulge.

Baked or boiled turkey, skinless and boneless without any seasoning, is a terrific source of protein that both dogs and cats enjoy.

Yams, sweet potatoes, and regular potatoes can be boiled or roasted and fed either mashed or cubed to your animals. Just ensure these veggies are free of butter, brown sugar, gravy and other seasonings.

Brown or white rice makes for a nice addition to a pet’s diet as long as it is bland and not covered in fatty gravy or seasonings.

If your pet is all right eating cheese and some dairy, a small serving of macaroni and cheese can be the perfect treat.

Cooked or raw veggies (carrots, spinach, green beans) add extra vitamins and minerals to your pet’s diet without causing digestive issues.

Adding a cooked egg to your pet’s breakfast (minus salt and pepper) brings in additional protein as well as flavor to mealtime.

Enjoy the holidays with your friends, families and pets without overly indulging the furry members of your family!

——

Cate Burnette is a semi-retired registered veterinary technician with clinical experience in small and large animal medicine. With 30-plus years of journalism experience, she went back to school after 9/11 to work with her first love: animals. The pet parent of four cats, three dogs and one ex-racehorse, Cate is a certified rescue volunteer with the American Humane Association’s Red Star Emergency Services and served with the group in New Orleans doing animal search and rescue after Hurricane Katrina. She is also a horse safety and horse management expert, and has volunteered with US Pony Clubs as a district commissioner and horse management judge.