HUNTSVILLE, Ala. — As the holiday season approaches, you might want to consider your furry friends when decorating your home or hosting an event.
Holiday plants such as mistletoe, poinsettias, and azaleas can be deadly to cats and dogs, so be sure to place them where they can't reach them.
When it comes to food, Vets say the best human food to give your pets is none, however, exceptions can be made.
"If you have a dog that just won't leave you alone when you're eating, throw some baby carrots or unsalted green beans on your plate." stated Dr. Blaine O'Reilly with McCurdy Animal Hospital. "You can give them that as a treat. It's coming from your plate. I think it's just something really special."
Christmas time is also known for its sweet treats, for those who enjoy sugar free items, the effects of some sweeteners can be fatal.
"Watch out for xylitol" said Dr. Wesley Clendinen of South Huntsville Vet Hospital. "If your dog gets into or cat gets into something that has xylitol or sugar is a sugar free sweet substance. Go ahead and call your vet."
If your pets also seemingly never want to leave your side, they might be suffering from separation anxiety. It might be best to work with your Vet to find the best solution if you plan to be away from them during the holiday season.
Dr. Wesley Clendinen explained it best.
"They are separated from you and in the same house where they can hear you gets really, really freaked out or ramped up, finding some way to potentially work with your vet to have a mild sedative for them, or distracting them with some sort of to treat or something to redirect their attention from the fact that they're not with you."
Wellness Wednesday: Pet health during the Holidays
Food, plants, and anxiety are something's you should watch.