Thanksgiving

Bones – Turkey, chicken and other small animal bones are very different from the large bones you find at the pet store. These small bones splinter easily and can cause serious internal damage if swallowed, so NEVER give them to your pet.
Hot containers – Your dog or cat will most likely become curious when they smell something cooking. Keep an eye on hot containers so that your pet does not tip them over, causing severe burns.

Christmas

Holiday plants – The following holiday plants are toxic to cats and dogs: Christmas rose, Holly, Poinsettias, Lilies and Mistletoe.
Ribbons – Sure it may look adorable, but placing a ribbon around your pet’s neck may cause them to choke.
Bubbling lights – Older forms of this attractive decoration may contain methylene chloride, which is a highly toxic chemical.
Fire salts – Contain chemicals that could be harmful to pets.
Angel Hair (spun glass) – Can be irritating to eyes and skin, and could cause intestinal obstruction if eaten in large amounts.
Christmas tree water – Stagnant tree water or water containing preservatives could result in stomach upset if ingested.
Decoration hooks – Can cause blockage and/or trauma to gastrointestinal tract if swallowed.
Styrofoam – Can cause your dog or cat to choke if swallowed.
Ornaments – These can look like toys to your cat or dog, so keep them out of your pet’s reach so they don’t pose a risk of injury.

Tinsel – Can cause choking or internal trauma if swallowed.

New Year’s

Balloons and Confetti – These are among the common items used to decorate a New Year’s party venue, but can pose an obstruction or choking hazard to your pet if ingested. Be sure to keep an eye on them when they around these items or place them in an area that does not have decorations.

Loud noises – New Year’s is typically a noisy holiday. Unfortunately, loud noises frighten pets and can cause them to run off. Keep your pet in a separate room, away from noisemakers, music and other loud sounds that may startle them.

Alcohol – Alcoholic beverages are toxic to pets and should never be given to your dog or cat.

Halloween

Happy Halloween Everyone! Halloween for your pets is different than for us. Please be aware that treats/candy that would normally be out of reach may be accessible to your pets during this time. Along with the dangers of some of these treats, your dog or cat may ingest the wrapper that they came in. Unfortunately people leave candy wrappers on the ground in the park, on your street, or anywhere. These wrappings can cause blockages and even death. Many candies and gums now use artificial sweeteners such as Xylitol which are toxic to your animals. Decorations are fun for us but may be scary for your pet (eating them is also something to watch out for). Many move or make sounds that are not familiar to them.
Pets are naturally curious, and may be attracted to the flickering light of a flame. Dogs and cats could either burn themselves by the flame, or knock the candle over, accidentally setting your house on fire. We all know about chocolate, and some of us know about raisins,
Xylitol & Other Artificial Sweeteners – Candy or gum sweetened with artificial sweeteners are toxic and may be fatal to many animals and should be kept away from your pet.
Pranks – Some pets, specifically black cats, have become victims of torture and abuse during Halloween, so be sure to keep your pet indoors.

Fourth of July

Start preparing for the fireworks a few weeks in advance.

The Fourth of July holiday can bring out a high level of fear and anxiety for our pups. So much so, that it is a day notoriously known for dogs running away in panic mode. Even the most well-trained dog will try to find a way to escape, if one presents itself. The good news is, you can help prepare your pup in advance, by desensitizing them, and following a few tips to help make the evening easier on them. Here are some tips to help your animals deal with the loud sounds that this holiday brings:

Things to Start Early:

• Play firework sounds at a very low volume and gradually increase the volume over the next few weeks, keeping your dog relaxed and comfortable throughout the process.
• Consider calming aids such as aromatherapy (lavender or chamomile) or calming treats. Test them before the holiday and always follow dosing instructions. (We recommend Calm Spray or Drama-Trauma from BlackWing Farms. Reach out to us for a discount code!)
• Offer enrichment like a stuffed Kong or food puzzle to create positive associations and provide a healthy distraction. Give an extra special one on the holiday.
• Start playing calming music before bedtime to help establish a relaxing routine.
• Be sure your pet is microchipped and that you have registered and/or updated your contact information with the microchip company.
• Make sure your pup’s tags are legible, or get one for them if they don’t have one yet!

On the Fourth:

• Take your dog for a long walk before evening festivities begin.
• Keep your dog or cat indoors, ideally in a quiet room away from windows and flashing lights. Don’t leave your animals outside during the fireworks, even in a fenced area.
• Close curtains and blinds, or cover windows if possible. You may consider putting a blanket over their crate, if they are crated.
• Use music, white noise, or the TV to help mask firework sounds.
• Make sure all of your gates and doors to your front and back yards are secure, in case a pup is anxious and tries to escape.
• For dogs with severe anxiety, talk with your veterinarian about a mild sedative, but we recommend trying some of the tips mentioned above before medicating your pup.
• For you and your pets’ safety, please do NOT attempt to set off your own fireworks. Remember, they are illegal in LA County and LA City! Observe the professional shows if you want to view them (and leave your pups at home!)

Easter

Fake grass – This colorful “grass” may look appetizing to your pet, but actually poses a choking and intestinal obstruction hazard if ingested.

Small toys and other plastic items – If swallowed, small toys and plastic Easter eggs can cause your pet to choke or even damage their intestinal tract.

Valentine’s Day

Flowers – Many types of flowers and plants that are found in the bouquets are harmful to dogs and cats.

St. Patrick’s Day

Beer and other alcoholic beverages are dangerous for your pets.