Where did all these people come from?
Cats and dogs may have a different view than us of Christmas.
The visitors
Some dogs and cats revel in the attention, but others are very shy or nervous, so it is a good idea to provide them with a designated room that they can use as a safe haven.
All the food
Party food is a problem for pets as well as children, so try to keep to their usual routine and food if you want to avoid a trip to the doctor or us here at the hospital for upset tummies.
Foreign objects
No, not the outlaws. Small toys, balls, string and other smaller objects are fascinating and quickly consumed by a curious four-legged hoover. Small rubber balls are a classic cause of bowel obstructions, as is that elasticised wrapping around roasts. Please, please make sure the rubbish bin lid is secure over this period. Check it today.
The Christmas tree
Yep. That nice tree is a great scratching post, climbing game or somewhere to lift one’s leg. Things to check: secure it so that it won’t fall over; don’t put parcels containing food, especially chocolate, under it if you have a dog, or small children.
Toys
Toys and bones can be very possessively guarded by some dogs, so check what is going on when visitors are around who may want to play with your dog. Likewise, if other dogs are visiting, supervise them together in case arguments arise.
Boarding kennels
Check that your cat or dog’s vaccinations are up to date, including kennel cough for dogs, because it can upset the start to the holiday if you are turned away by the kennels. And leave a contact number should they or the hospital need to contact you.
Chocolate
Chocolate can be toxic for our furry friends. If they do eat the chocolates, give the hospital a call straight away.
So there are some tips and ideas. Remember the hospital is open over the whole holiday period – pets don’t have calendars – and we are only a phone call away.
Have an awesome Christmas and New Year, from all the crazy Anderson’s crew.
Anderson’s Veterinary Hospitals in Palmerston North, phone 357 9993 for Pitama Rd or 356 9993 for Hokowhitu, open till 7pm Monday to Friday and open Saturday and Sunday.