Christmas is coming! What does this mean for my pets!?

            The holidays are fast approaching, we have presents to buy, dinners to prepare and trips to plan! With so much to do it can be easy to forget what we need to do for our furry friends ahead of the season. That is why we at Warman Small Animal Hospital have you covered with a comprehensive guide for what you need to consider this holiday season.

Got any trips planned?

            Tis the season for long drives to the in-laws, or if we’re lucky an escape to a warm beach.

But if Fido can’t come with, then what’s the plan? If your pet is going to be boarding with a kennel, or even with friends/family it is very important that they are up to date on their vaccinations.

While not always required per kennel policy, the Kennel Cough vaccination is recommended. Kennel Cough is an infectious condition caused by a collection of common viruses and bacteria. As the name implies It is often contracted in kennel and boarding situations, where dogs from different households are gathering in close proximity. Symptoms may include coughing, sneezing, nasal discharge and lethargy, and the infection is typically self-limiting. However, in serious cases you may see fever, refusal to eat and even pneumonia (infection within the lungs). While not 100% effective for prevention, the vaccine does help reduce severity of illness.

We also recommend you consider internal and external parasite protection during kennel stays, to prevent your pet from bringing home any unwanted guests when you return

If your pet gets to join you on your trip, make sure you research what is required. Many airlines require documentation from your veterinarian that your pet is healthy enough to fly. Also, different regions have different health regulations to consider.  Did you know that in the southern united states they have mosquitos that carry heartworm all year round!? Makes you appreciate the cold weather, doesn’t it?

All stocked up on your pet’s food and medications?

            This year Warman Small Animal Hospital will be closed on the following dates:

                        Dec 24^th, Dec 25^th, and January 1^st.

            Please be aware that we will not be offering after hours emergency care on these dates as well, though otherwise our services will continue as normal. If your pet requires prescription medication or food, please ensure that you won’t be caught short during these days!

Nails getting long?

            If your pet requires routine maintenance such as their nails trimmed, anal glands expressed, allergy or arthritis injections. Please book these appointments well in advance. Due to our reduced hours over the holidays these appointments book up very quickly.

What is NOT a treat?

            While the holidays are known for delicious treats, not everything is safe for our pets to eat. Please be educated on which holiday traditions to be cautious about with regards to your fur baby.

·         Plants: Poinsettias, mistletoe, holly, amaryllis and lilies- These common holiday plants should be kept far away from both dogs and cats.

·         Chocolate: Mild toxicity causes Gastrointestinal signs such as vomiting and diarrhea however if enough is ingested then the resulting seizures are eventually fatal.

·         Coffee: caffeine toxicity causes similar symptoms to that of chocolate.

·         Nutmeg, cream of tartar, raisins: These common holiday baking supplies are toxic for dogs and cats if ingested in large enough quantity

If you believe that any of these listed items were ingested by your pet, contact a veterinarian immediately for further instruction.

            It is also important to be aware that even nontoxic foods can cause medical issues. Food’s high in fat can cause a condition in small animals called pancreatitis which can be life threatening. So, think twice before Sparky gets the buttered mashed potatoes or turkey leg!

Speaking of turkey legs, bones do NOT dissolve in stomach acid. Ingestion of bones can lead to gastrointestinal obstruction or even perforations.  Stick to the chew toys please!

From our family here at WSAH we would like to wish everyone a happy holiday season and new year. If you have any questions or concerns regarding the information in this blog please give us a call, we are happy to help!