For most of us, our pets are a part of the family, and we include them in our celebrations. That’s fine, as long as we do so with their special needs in mind. Pets can’t always eat the same foods we eat. You may have to educate children and relatives about the limits you set on your pets’ participation in the holiday fare.
However, even with proper instruction, you have to exercise due diligence. I still remember catching my 88-year-old father feeding my dog an entire dish of pie and ice cream. In fact, he went back for seconds just to give it to the dog. That was the Christmas before we lost Dad and he had Alzheimer’s, but anyone young, old, or petless, may decide that just one time won’t hurt–unless ten other people also thought one time wouldn’t hurt and sneak a bite to the dog when you aren’t looking. Children are exceptionally good at sneaking food to share. So be firm and be vigilant.
Hint: If your children are old enough, put them in charge of making sure the dog doesn’t get any food and reward them with an extra dessert or a bit of money for supervising and reporting to you. A bit of incentive may help keep everyone out of trouble.
Some of the most dangerous foods for pets are chocolate, grapes, raisins, peanuts, and onion. All of these can make a pet ill and even cause death. The type of pet, size, and age, are all critical factors in the damage that can be done. This warning applies to dogs, cats, and birds–especially parrots. Cinnamon is toxic to cats (and in many holiday foods) due to the benzene rings in that spice. Our companions are not human, and we need to respect their unique physical needs.
In addition, caffeine in coffee, teas, and sodas, as well as alcohol and high amounts of salt and sugar are dangerous. These foods may interact with your pet’s medication or cause your pet to behave in a dangerous way–just as they do with humans. A tipsy pet can also fall down steps on ice and break a leg or have any number of other mishaps involving safety and judgement. A pet with kidney disease can be adversely affected by excessive salt, caffeine, and alcohol. And, a diabetic pet definitely can end up in the hospital with an overdose of food, with or without excess sugar, fat, and seasonings.
The other serious food related danger is pancreatitis. Rich sauces, fats, and greasy meats cause pancreas inflammation that can be fatal.
Last of all, don’t make decorations into toys. Decorations are not safe for pets and many pets have spent holidays in the emergency room after ingesting various types of decorations. So don’t play with kitty with ribbons or allow the dog to bat around a ball-shaped ornament, even if it isn’t breakable. Just like kids, they need to learn that the decorations are off limits. They should only be allowed to play with their toys.
When you present a new toy, take time to play with your pet, so they learn that the new toy is for them. It can be confusing for a pet to try to determine what is new, old, theirs, and a decoration. Be patient and redirect them with a gentle “no” and one of their own toys or treats.
Here’s wishing you and all of your family members a safe, healthy, and happy holiday.
