With winter on the horizon, it’s officially the start of the holiday season. As you plan family visits and holiday parties, think about the overall health of your beloved animals as well. To ensure your furry friends enjoy the festivities at your side without having to visit an emergency veterinarian, here are a few do’s and don’ts to embrace.  

Do’s & Don’ts of Pet Care During the Holidays

Do:

Schedule your annual pet wellness exam.

The best way to ensure your animal is healthy is by visiting your veterinarian once a year for a wellness exam. This is more pertinent as animals age or when they have pre-existing conditions. It’s a great opportunity to check on their vaccination schedule, flea and tick medication, and to discuss protecting your animal’s paws and general well-being in cold, winter weather. 

Make holiday decorations pet-proof.

With festive decorations, such as lights and hanging ornaments, curious animals are prone to getting into dangerous situations if left unattended. To avoid an emergency trip the animal hospital, make sure items like tinsel and glass ornaments are out of your pet’s reach. Dogs and cats that like to chew on plants and leaves should not have access to mistletoe, holly, or poinsettias as they are mildly toxic and can lead to kidney issues that require the help of a veterinarian if ingested. 

Don’t:

Overfeed your animal.

Traditional ingredients and delicacies like turkey, chocolate, garlic, grapes, and even onions can wreak havoc on your animal’s digestive system. Instead of feeding table scraps, consider buying your pet a special treat at the pet store. 

Forget to clean up after meals.

Whether you’re hosting a big holiday party or enjoying a festive dinner with family, there tends to be extra food and treats in the house this time of year. With this in mind, be vigilant about cleaning up after meals. Store leftovers out of your pet’s reach. If your pet is vomiting or has diarrhea, call your veterinarian right away as they may have got into human food that’s affecting their health. 

Troy & Wentzville Veterinary Clinic has been providing top-notch animal care for residents throughout Lincoln and St. Charles counties, MO, for over six decades. If you’re looking for an experienced veterinarian who will treat your beloved pet as a member of their extended family, call this animal hospital at (636) 528-4534 to schedule an appointment. For more information on their services, including small pet wellness exams and tending to large animals like livestock, visit their website.