Pets as Presents? Things to Consider...

You think you have found the perfect gift: a new puppy in a big red bow for someone you love. Surprise! Think again. Sure, it's the thought that counts, but there are several reasons to avoid giving a new puppy or dog as a present. Bottom line, it's usually not an ideal situation for the dog, nor the new owner.

Dogs as Gifts for Adults

First of all, can you really be sure that this person even wants a new dog? If so, is the receiver actually ready for a dog? If you know this person is a dog lover, but does not already have a dog, there's probably a good reason why. If he or she already owns a dog, perhaps it's not the appropriate time to add another dog to the family. Talk to this person about dog ownership. Maybe you can go as moral support when the time comes to choose a dog. Either way, it's safest to stick with gifts of the non-living and breathing variety.

Dogs as Gifts for Children

The gift of a new dog or puppy is something many kids dream about. Unfortunately, most of these little ones do not realize that with dog ownership comes responsibility. Soon enough, the care of the dog can fall into the hands of mom or dad. If you are not the child's parent, then you really have no place giving that child a new dog unless the parent(s) are on board. If you are a parent of the child, then getting a dog is a family decision. Have a discussion with your child about the responsibilities involved. Examine your household situation so you can choose the right dog for your family.

If a New Dog is Right

If the receiver of the gift is actually in a position to welcome a new dog into the home, there are still some important things to consider. Dogs given as gifts on birthdays and holidays can get caught up in all the hustle and bustle of the events. Sadly, they may be soon forgotten like new toys and games - particularly where kids are concerned. If someone you care about is interested in getting a dog, give a book about dog ownership or a dog accessory as a gift. Discuss plans to go and pick out that new dog or puppy. If the future owner of the dog is part of the decision process, it will be in everyone's favor. It's the best way to start dog and owner off on the right foot.

Holiday Decorations & Pet Safety

It’s about that time of year, the time which brings so many of us joy and happiness.  We slowly begin to decorate our homes, and our trees, ready in time for that special day towards the end of the month.  But what about your beloved pets?  

Here are the top 10 holiday decorations to avoid because of the dangers they pose on your pets.  

LET’S BEGIN…

#10: CHRISTMAS TREES:   this one is a toughy…it’s hard to just not have a tree during the holidays, but dogs and cats tend to jump up when they see a tree, climb up, and try to play with the ornaments, which may lead to the tree falling down.

#9: IMITATION SNOW:  although this looks very neat on the windows of our homes or on our Christmas trees, it can be very hazardous to pets if ingested.

#8: PRESERVATIVES ON YOUR TREE:  chemical preservatives are sometimes used on trees to keep them fresh longer, but because of the chemicals, if your pet licks the tree, or drinks the water, it is extremely poisonous.

#7: EDIBLE ORNAMENTS: candy canes are very festive, and it’s very fun to make homemade ornaments, but if your pet tries to eat it, they will be eating all the sugar, the toxic glue, and potentially some hazardous and poisonous materials.  Place them high on the tree.

#6: LIT CANDLES: Be mindful to keep lit candles far away from pets as they may become curious and either burn themselves or knock over the lit candle.

#5: CHRISTMAS LIGHTS: keep the lights away from the bottom because that makes it very easy for your dog or cat to find a new chew toy.

#4: HOLLY BERRIES: according to the ASPCA, holly berries are considered potentially toxic if consumed in large amount and they may result in gastrointestinal irritation and depression of the central nervous system.

#3: ANGEL HAIR: angel hair is finely spun fiberglass that was used in vintage decorations, but are no longer on the market.  If you have any old decorations made out of angel hair, please don’t use them due to the health concerns.

#2: DELICATE OR TREASURED ORNAMENTS: if you can’t stand the thought of a sentimental ornament breaking, your best bet is to put it somewhere a pet can’t get to.

#1: TINSEL: it is possibly the most dangerous holiday decoration for your pets.  If ingested, even a little strand, may lead to severe illness and even deadly effects of intestinal obstruction.  Stay Away!

Simon's Cat in 'Fowl Play'

Table Foods and Pets

Great Bridge Veterinary Hospital suggests resisting the urge to feed table scraps from your holiday feast to your pets. Ask your guests to refrain too. Make sure your trash containers are secured and pet proofed. Be sure that all alcoholic beverages are properly disposed of as they contain ethanol, which can seriously harm your pet. Those tasty turkey bones can splinter and perforate stomach and other internal organs. Indulging in too much of the other holiday goodies such as grapes, raisins, onions can be toxic or can cause diarrhea and intestinal upsets in the best behaved pets. We want your holiday season with your pets and family to be a happy and safe one!

 

National Mutt Day

Today is National Mutt Day! National Mutt Day is all about embracing, saving and celebrating mixed breed dogs. This is a day to raise awareness of the plight of mixed breed dogs in shelters around the nation and to educate the public about the sea of mixed breed dogs that desperately await new homes. How did you decide that your mixed breed companion was the right pet for you?