Avoid the Top 12 Holiday Pet Hazards

The holidays are a time to get together with family and celebrate, enjoy plenty of good food, and each others company. Unfortunately veterinarians are kept busy at this time of year as the holidays bring many potential hazards for our pets. Take the precautions below to ensure that all of the members of your family have happy and safe holidays.

Avoiding the Hazards of the Christmas Tree

1)      If you bring a live tree into your home make sure that you cover the water in the base so that your pets cannot drink. The pine sap and chemical additives used to extend tree life are dangerous if ingested.  Clean up fallen pine needles frequently as these can be toxic if swallowed.

2)     Secure your tree so that it won’t fall if curious cats climb the branches.

3)     Clean up all ribbons, and tinsel, and keep these decorations high enough that they are out of reach as they can block intestines if they are eaten by your pets.

4)     If you cats are attracted by the sparkle of glass ornaments keep them high on the tree out of reach.

5)     Purchase pet safe extension cords or spray cords with bitter apple to stop pets chewing them.

6)     Keep gifts containing food off the floor so that pets won’t be tempted to break into them.

7)     Turn tree lights off when you are away from home as playful cats can entangle themselves in the cords and risk electrocution

Avoiding Food and Plant Hazards

  1. Lilies, poinsettias, holly, and mistletoe leaves and berries can cause poisoning, vomiting, or diarrhea. Keep out of reach of your pets.

9)     Don’t be tempted to feed your pets table scraps as high fat or high sugar foods can cause gastro-enteritis. Don’t let pets eat chocolate, or foods containing garlic or onions, coffee, and definitely don’t feed them alcohol. Educate your guests to be sure they keep these poisons out of reach of your pets.

Holiday Common Sense Tips

10) Burning great smelling candles is popular during the holidays. Keep open flames away from areas where curious kitty can reach. Cats brushing against candles can set their fur on fire.

11)  Minimize stress on your pets by giving them a quiet area of the house when large groups friends or family visit your home.

12)  Don’t give pets as holiday gifts. If you want a great gift for an animal lover give them pet toys, pet supplies, or gift certificates to pet stores.

Following these tips will ensure that you have a safe and joyful holiday with your family – furry and otherwise!

What about owning a pet business?

Owning a pet business does not guarantee you success, but it is generally not difficult to set up your own pet business adn many who own pet businesses love the hard working lifestyle and the closeness to pets. You will have to compete with those who may be better trained, may have lower cost structures and those who “pretend” to have your skills and experience when they do not. (eg not all those who advertise themselves as groomers are actually Groomers).

Essential skills for working with dogs

There are also key skills that all dog industry professionals should possess. Here are some of the most critical skills and abilities for those hoping to work with dogs professionally: Basic Dog Handling and Training Skills, ability to recognize behavioral signals.

Safety tips for working with animals

Animals can be somewhat unpredictable when they are under stress or in an unfamiliar environment, like when they visit the veterinary office or the grooming salon, so it is important to be attentive and stay aware of the animal you are handling at all times.