Keeping Dogs Safe During the Holidays

Did you know wrapping paper, ribbon, and yarn can all wreak disaster on your dog's gastrointestinal tract? The things you use around the house can lead to a painful experience for your dog. Some of the items left around the house can harm your dog and turn an exciting Christmas day into a night at the emergency vet's office.

Foods that Harm Dogs

Most dog owners know that turkey can lead to pancreatitis in dogs. Pancreatitis is an inflammation of the pancreas, and it leads to a painful condition that can even be fatal. Small schnauzer dogs are mostly susceptible to pancreatitis. Even tiny bits of the skin, meat or dark meat of the turkey can cause extreme vomiting and diarrhea in dogs. Avoid giving dogs any kind of turkey meat.

Chocolate is another no-no for dogs. Chocolate causes similar results as turkey meat in dogs. Chocolate contains chemicals called xanthines. Xanthines are also found in coffee and teas. These chemicals are stimulants, and they give you the energy felt after a few bites or sips. These chemicals are dangerous for dogs, and they lead to diarrhea to seizures and death.

Items Found Under the Tree

Wrapping paper, ribbon, yarn and anything stringy like tinsel accumulate and block your dog's intestines. These items under the tree can also cause choking, so keep the dog away from the presents. It's also dangerous to burn candles while your dog plays around the house. A simple accident knocking over candles can lead to fires, ruining your Christmas holiday.

The oils and scents found in incense and candles are also toxic. Don't allow your dog to lick or chew any scented Christmas items. Cologne and perfumes found under the tree can spill. Quickly wipe them up and don't allow your dog to lick the fluid. Some dogs will chew into batteries, which contain acid.

Christmas Plants are Toxic

Christmas is a time for plant displays and wreath decorations. The plants and decorations that you display are toxic to dogs. Holly and the attached berries can lead to diarrhea and vomiting. Holly can even lead to death. Poinsettias are pretty plants that brighten the home. These plants have sap that irritates the dog's stomach. Mistletoe and hibiscus can also cause stomach upset and diarrhea.

In addition to small plants, the big Christmas tree in the living room is also dangerous for dogs. Your local store has pens that surround the tree and protect your dog from the Christmas tree's sap, needles and even presents. You can also trim the branches around the bottom of the tree to keep the needles out of reach of small dogs.

These few tips are harmful for your dog, but you don't need to eliminate them from the home. Keep your dog away from harmful items and keep them out of reach. Use a pen around a tree to avoid hazards, and enjoy the holidays.