Give a Dog A Home Holiday Safety Tips from the ASPCADecember 18, 2003 12:43 a.m. From the December 4th ASPCA News Alert, a weekly e-mail newsletter from The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals:
MAKE THE SEASON BRIGHT FOR YOUR PETS WITH OUR HOLIDAY SAFETY TIPS
"We see an increased number of calls related to pet poisoning between Thanksgiving and New Year's," says Dr. Steven Hansen, Senior Vice President, ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Here's one holiday list you can check twice to help keep the furry members of your family happy and healthy: Season's eatings shouldn't include holiday greenery such as holly, mistletoe, lilies or amaryllis. While commonly used to deck the halls, they can make your pet sick if ingested. Look before you light. Lit candles produce fumes that can be harmful to birds if inhaled. And don't forget, your pet's wagging tail can easily knock over a burning candle. Liquid potpourri is also dangerous to pets, who can ingest it from decorative bowls and simmering pots. Whoa, Christmas tree! Evergreen branches definitely delight pets, who've been known to chew on them--and whatever else happens to be hanging from them. Place small, breakable ornaments up high, and keep tinsel and garland out of your pet's reach, because these can get caught in his throat. Pine needles are also toxic to your furry friends, and the water in your tree stand should be kept off-limits, too. Keep batteries--loose and in packages--away from pets. They contain corrosives that can cause ulceration in your animal companion's mouth, tongue and gastrointestinal tract if bitten or swallowed. Shy animals can get stressed with the hustle and bustle of holiday guests, so make sure there's a quiet room to which your pets can retreat. If you suspect your pet has gotten into a potentially poisonous substance, call your veterinarian or the APCC's emergency hotline, 1-888-426-4435, for round-the-clock telephone assistance. For more yuletide safety tips, watch our video at ASPCA online. The final results of the ASPCA'S 8th Annual Photo Contest are in and you can see them at the ASPCA website, starting with the first place winner. You can sign up for the ASPCA email newsletter by going here. The last five entries: National Dog Bite Prevention Week May 16-22 - May 21, 2004 URGENT: Two Shih Tzu in VA Need a Home by Thursday - May 19, 2004 Ohio Puppies Need Homes ASAP - May 19, 2004 New Jersey's Animal Friendly License Plates - May 17, 2004 Swiffer Wet Jet Rumor - May 14, 2004 |
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