Holiday Safety Tips

Preventing emergency veterinary visits during the holidays is essential. During family gatherings, accidents involving pets can occur, such as ingesting harmful products, eating food given by a young child, or accidentally dropping food. Additionally, doors may inadvertently be left open when loved ones arrive, and even the plants your guests bring as gifts can turn a joyful gathering into a stressful one..

Although there are no specific statistics on pet injuries in the United States each year due to a lack of comprehensive insurance analysis, several dangers may be present in your home that could harm your pets.

To gain insights on keeping pets safe during the holidays, New York Lifestyles spoke with Dr. John Campanile, a veterinarian with 40 years of experience at the Animal Hospital of Brooklyn.  

NYL: What is the number of holiday-related injuries that occur each year during the holiday season?
JC: Throughout my years as a veterinarian, from Halloween until Christmas, we see well over 50 holiday-related injuries per holiday season. Unfortunately, the last three months of the year may bring many concerns and worries for both clients and their pets. Even though the holiday season is meant to bring family and friends closer together, we like to spoil our pets more than usual. Make sure to take the necessary steps to protect your animal. Make sure your vet information is on the fridge, not in that drawer full of papers you never open. Keep the poison control phone number handy and research your local 24/7 emergency vet clinic.  

NYL: What foods can dogs and cats safely eat at Thanksgiving? Which foods should be avoided?
JC: I wouldn’t say spoiling your pets is a bad idea, but sometimes it could become more dangerous than you think. Some foods are okay to give your pet in small amounts. If you know your pet is allergic to a specific type of food, make sure that what you are giving your pet does not contain that food. No matter what, do not give your fur-child any chocolate. Any food that contains Xylitol can be dangerous and cause liver failure. Xylitol is commonly used as a sugar substitute in sugar-free foods. Sometimes it is also found in peanut butter. Raisins, macadamia nuts, garlic, onions, avocados, grapes, and olives are also foods to avoid giving to your pet. Raw meat and bones are something else I would avoid giving.

According to PetMD, petmd.com “Cooked bones: Cooked bones splinter more easily than raw bones, so they can present a choking hazard and break into small shards that can pierce the digestive tract. Small bones: Small bones come with higher risks because it’s easier for your dog to choke on them. Round bones: Your dog is also more likely to choke on round bones that can get stuck in their windpipe. Round bones can also get stuck around the lower jaw and may require vet removal.

NYL: Should guardians isolate their pets when having company? Should they inform their guests in advance to be cautious about what they feed him/her?
JC: When it comes to isolating your animal for the holidays, that decision is up to the owners. If you know you have a high-anxiety dog or cat, then isolating them may be the best thing to do. If your house has a revolving door or people opening and closing it, consider isolating your pet, especially if you have a smaller animal that can slip through a door crack. Always let your guests know ahead of time what they can and cannot feed your animal.

NYL: What is your best advice for keeping pets safe during the holiday season?
JC: The best advice I can give pet parents during the holiday season is to stay vigilant. Between running around and getting last-minute costumes or presents to those who forgot the pastries on the counter in the bakery, it only takes one second for an accident to happen. Make sure your pet is microchipped, and make sure that the information is correct and up to date. If your pet isn’t microchipped, make sure they wear a collar with a tag with your information. Store foods that you know are toxic in tight containers and out-of-reach spaces. Pay attention to things that may fall on the floor, like candy. Just because we enjoy trick or treating doesn’t mean your pet will. There are times when we adults may need a drink or something to take the edge off the holiday craziness. Do not give your pet anything without consulting your veterinarian first. Be mindful of the decorations that you use. Also, be aware of poisonous plants. Some pet-friendly foods include Pumpkin Puree, sweet potatoes and regular potatoes, carrots, peanut butter, apples and bananas, blueberries, and Greek yogurt. Some cooked meats are safe too, including chicken, turkey, ham, and beef. Avoid giving raw food and avoid seasoning.  

NYL: Many people often surprise others with pets as gifts; however, the recipient may not realize that this decision involves a lifelong commitment. What would you advise someone considering gifting a pet?
JC: If you or someone you know is thinking of giving an animal to someone as a gift, there are plenty of things to keep in mind. Having a pet is like having a child —it is a full-time job. Granted, you get a life-long friend; however, nothing stays young forever. Some people say that the animal is so cute because it’s so tiny. Will it still be cute when it weighs 80 pounds and tries to sit on your lap? Consider that person’s everyday life routine. Will they have time to care for the animal? Will the animal be left alone all day? 

If that person likes to take numerous vacations, who will take care of the pet while they are gone? Just as we need to eat and use the restroom daily, so do they. Will they be able to take them on walks or clean out a litter box. Being a pet parent is a rewarding experience, but it also comes with great responsibility. When you decide to bring a pet into your home, you are not just gaining a companion; you are committing to their well-being and happiness for their entire life.

If you’d like to learn more about safety tips during the holiday season, visit Aspca. aspca.org
Photos: Animal Hospital of Brooklyn