Are you one of those dogs that are always hungry? Do you chew and eat everything and anything that isn’t nailed down? Better watch out! Another holiday is coming up soon and there will be lots of things around the house (yes, some within easy reach on coffee tables) that are definitely not for you dogs. Well, there’s no good talking to you about it. I’ll warn your people.

To the Dog’s Owner:                         

The holidays are not only almost here, they go on and on until next year! Getting ready for Thanksgiving starts now and is followed by the Christmas holidays, and finally we welcome in the New Year. On top of the celebrations, there are friends and family visiting and school vacations to think about. Mind-boggling, isn’t it. All of this keeps everyone busy and maybe not thinking enough about dear Rufus.   

Take a look at some of it from the dog’s point of view. You bring home holiday decorations for the table and house, as well as food. Things like scented candles, a lovely centerpiece (fake or real) for the dining room table, plus fruits, nuts and candies to be put around here and there as special snacks. And what does your otherwise adorable dog see? TOYS! TREATS!                        

Some dangers are obvious. Candles and that centerpiece of fall foliage or Christmas greenery are obviously not meant for canine consumption. But many foods that are either good for you (as your mother would say) or are special treats, can spell disaster for our dogs. What makes it worse is when the family dog has such a poisonous reaction during a festive holiday because it might go unnoticed until it has become extremely serious. Most dog owners do know that chocolate in any form or quantity can be fatal to dogs. That’s a tough one because most dogs love even just the smell of chocolate. (Chewing gum is also toxic, but perhaps not quite so appealing.)                

Grapes are on the danger list to be kept away from dogs and cats. This can start off innocently when one grape becomes a toy to bat across the floor by either animal. The danger comes when they get into a bunch of grapes! Raisins, too, are on that list, so keep the fruitcake and mincemeat pie out of reach. Avocados and onions may not be so tempting, but are also potential health hazards. The poisonous reaction usually begins with obvious signs such as choking or vomiting, but it’s best to be aware of any change in your dog’s physical condition. “Sick as a dog” is an old saying, but one to heed.    

We keep the dog out of the garbage so we don’t have to clean up the mess, but there’s a far more serious reason. Garbage tends to pile up somewhat unattended during the holidays with the normal increase in kinds of food and the number of people being fed. Here the problem is twofold: the actual items of food that are in the garbage (even coffee grounds) and the fact that rotting food contains either mold or bacteria that can produce food poisoning. While we’re at it, (and you’re thinking about cleaning up the mess) follow directions carefully that are on household cleaners regarding safety for use around pets. 

While admiring your décor, and savoring your gourmet cuisine – keep both eyes open as to where your dog is and what he’s doing.                 

                                            

Until next time – BE GOOD!

-  Bardi

Bardi McLennan bred, trained and showed Welsh Terriers for 30 years during which time she wrote a monthly column on canine behavior in Dog fancy Magazine. In addition to contributing to numerous dog publications, she has written 15 books on dogs, the latest being Rescue Me! which received the ASPCA Humane Issues Award last year.