HOW TO AVOID OUR OFFICE THIS CHRISTMAS!

The holidays are quickly approaching and everyone loves to take part. Our pets don’t have to be an exception, but it can be hard to tell what holiday foods are safe. 

Every year we see many pets over the holidays because they are lethargic, vomiting, having diarrhea and sometimes their symptoms are even more severe. Sometimes these things just happen, sometimes there is something more severe going on BUT most of the time around the holidays, these symptoms are brought on by giving our pets foods they shouldn’t have or too much of ones they can have. 

We put together a quick list of safe and unsafe foods to help your furry baby enjoy the holiday season.

The Don’t List
Here’s what your dog and cat CAN’T eat:
• Macadamia Nuts/Pecans/Walnuts: All three types can cause vomiting and diarrhea. Macadamia nuts are the most harmful to dogs. Macadamia nuts can also cause pancreatitis and lead to the inability to walk in larger quantities. Walnuts can cause seizures if too many are ingested.
• Chocolate: Dark chocolate or baker’s chocolate are the top two to avoid this Christmas. Although ALL types of chocolate can cause vomiting and diarrhea in small amounts. In large quantities seizures can occur as well as irregular heart function.
• Unbaked Bread Dough: Unbaked dough can expand in the stomach, which could lead to bloat and progress to a twisted stomach.
 Fat Trimmings and Bones: Fat trimmings from both cooked and uncooked meat can cause pancreatitis in large amounts. Bones can be a choking hazard and become brittle when cooked, which have the potential to splinter as the pet chews on it.
• Stuffing: While bread alone is alright for pets, many of the ingredients in stuffing, such as sage, can cause an upset stomach.

The Do List

While there are many things your pet shouldn’t have, let’s take a look at treats they CAN have:
• Unsalted Cashews: This is a high protein, high fat treat that’s fine in moderation. Too much of a good thing can lead to weight gain.
• Turkey: Feeding small amounts of unseasoned meat is sure to make your pet drool. White meat has less fat and slightly more protein than dark meat. Be sure to remove the skin and any seasonings for a healthy treat.
 Sweet Potatoes: This is a nutritious treat that is also in many dog foods as well. Just make sure to go easy on the maple syrup and marshmallows!
• Cranberries: Dried cranberries are a great treat for your pet all year-round. Cranberries can also benefit pets with urinary tract issues.
• Pumpkin and Squash: These are a tasty way to add fiber into your pet’s diet. When baking your pie or side dish, set aside a bit of cooked squash or pumpkin before all your seasonings are added.
• Apples: Apples are a yummy treat that also have the added benefit of vitamins A and C, as well as lots of antioxidants. Their rough texture can also act as a tasty dental treat. It’s best to give slices, with the core and seeds always removed.

When looking to treat your pets this holiday make sure to research if the food is safe before feeding. If you aren’t sure about something, your pets will never turn down a new toy! Below is a link to Pet Poison Helpline where you can look to see if something is harmful.
The doctors and staff at Northern Veterinary Associates wish you and your furry bundles of joy a Happy, and Safe, Holiday Season!
Link to Pet Poison Helpline: http://www.petpoisonhelpline.com/

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