Morristown, TN
Indulging, celebrating, and having fun are all appropriate ways to spend the holiday season, and our canine companions are usually included in these activities. The holidays are a time of joy and good cheer, but they also bring a host of threats to our furry companions in the form of hazardous foods and seasonal plants. Plus, some pups get too excited or nervous with extra guests in the house. Experts at our Morristown dog boarding facility, AllDogs Canine Care Center, share information on how to keep your dog safe and calm this Christmas.
What items should a dog NOT eat?
You may believe that your furry friend can eat anything in the pantry or fridge that you can eat. Unfortunately, that belief is a myth, and you should exercise caution when feeding or providing something to drink for your dog. Our Morristown dog care experts share below several items that can severely harm your pet so that you can protect your pal during the holidays.
- Chocolate – No chocolate for the doggo! Chocolate contains theobromine, which is poisonous to dogs. Small doses may induce vomiting, diarrhea, hyperactivity, tremors, seizures, heart issues, and death. Baker’s chocolate has the highest amounts of theobromine. So, avoid putting chocolate on or beneath the tree.
- Mince Pies or Christmas Pudding – Christmas pudding and mince pies include dried fruits. Currants, sultanas, and raisins are harmful to dogs, especially when chocolate-covered. Small doses could induce renal failure.
- Allium Plant Species – Uncooked or cooked, onions, garlic, leeks, shallots, and chives are deadly Allium plants. The major impact is the destruction of red blood cells, which causes anemia, which may take days to appear.
- Alcohol – Dogs may drink unsupervised Christmas booze, so keep it out of their reach. In excess, alcohol affects dogs as it does their owners. In extreme situations, low body temperature, low blood sugar, and coma might occur.
- Artificial Sweeteners – Xylitol is a sugar-free sweetener used in Christmas candy, gum, mouthwash, toothpaste, and vitamins. Even one to two pieces may be hazardous to a tiny dog. However, the levels vary per product. It may cause low blood sugar and liver damage by releasing insulin. Toxic symptoms include vomiting, drowsiness, convulsions, and comas. If low blood sugar is addressed immediately, the prognosis is favorable.
- Leftovers – If there’s leftover food from Christmas, keep it away from your pet. Mold in leftovers, like yogurt, bread, and cheese, may induce rapid-onset seizures in dogs.
- Macadamia Nuts – Macadamia nuts induce lethargy, fever, tremor, lameness, and stiffness in dogs.
What items CAN a dog eat?
At our Morristown dog care facility, we completely understand how your pup can feel like a family member, and you want to include all family members in the holiday celebrations.
Fortunately, your dog can enjoy some holiday leftovers, provided they are in good health and not allergic to the following foods:
- Peas
- Carrot
- Green beans
- Sweet potatoes
- Scrambled eggs
- Brussels sprouts
- Lamb meat, no bones
- Mashed potatoes, no butter
- Turkey meat, no skin or bones
What holiday plants are a danger to my dog?
Although seasonal plants can add cheer, some pose a threat to your furry friend’s health.
Our Jefferson City dog care experts share a few holiday plants that may cause your pup to become ill:
- Poinsettia – Poinsettia toxicity is typically overstated, although it may induce tongue and stomach discomfort, excess saliva, and vomiting.
- Holly – Holly berries may cause gastrointestinal distress if consumed, despite the plant’s relatively moderate toxicity.
- Mistletoe – A stomach ache is a possible side effect of eating European mistletoe berries. The American plant species is far more lethal.
- Ivy – Ingesting a wreath and decorating Hedera ivy may induce gastrointestinal upset. Persistent or severe skin contact with Hedera species may cause allergic contact dermatitis.
- Christmas Trees – Dogs who ingest pine needles may have modest stomach distress, but the needles’ sharp edges may inflict more serious internal injuries.
Dog Boarding in Jefferson City and Morristown, Tennessee
It can be a wonderful time of year to spend the holidays with your family members, including your pets. Even though the Christmas season brings joy, it also brings dangers for your pup. Therefore, it’s crucial to pay attention to your furry family member and ensure they don’t ingest something that can harm them. If you plan on a large event at your home, it may be best and less stressful to board your pal at our dog care facility in Morristown. To book your dog’s stay, please call AllDogs Canine Care Center at (865) 475-2225 or contact us online for more information.