* Make your Christmas tree as doggie-proof as possible by not placing ornaments too low to the ground. The same goes for lights and tinsel; and be sure all electrical wires are covered so that they can't be "munched on". Watch out for those little metal ornament hooks too, they are difficult to see and can be sharp.
* Advise your guests against feeding your dog. What may seem like a sweet gesture can end up giving them an upset tummy, and vomiting which can lead to dehydration. For instance, cooked poultry bones can splinter and cause blockages. Greasy, spicy, and fatty foods can cause diarrhea; and spoiled or moldy foods could cause food poisoning, tremors, or seizures. If you choose to share some holiday fare with your pooch, keep it simple, such as a bit of plain meat or unbuttered veggies.
* Be sure that all alcoholic beverages are always out of reach of your pet! Alcohol, if ingested, can poison your dog causing them to become very weak, and in severe cases may induce a coma which can be fatal if there is resulting respiratory failure.
* Common holiday plants such as mistletoe and holly berries can also be potentially toxic to pets, causing gastrointestinal upsets and cardiovascular problems if ingested. Holly can cause vomiting, nausea, diarrhea, and lethargy. Poinsettias are actually considered to be very low in toxicity, however they can cause mild vomiting or nausea.
* Make certain that your dogs don't have access to the Christmas tree's water. It may contain fertilizers or pesticides which can cause stomach upset. Stagnant tree water also acts as an active breeding ground for bacteria.
Wishing you and yours a safe and happy holiday season from everyone at G.W. Little.
-S. Athanasiou