Inc. We want the holidays to be a happy time for you and your pet, not a time for an emergency visit to your veterinarian. The food and decorations that make the holidays so much fun for us can be dangerous for your pet. We don't want this article to dampen your holiday spirits, but we do want you to be aware of the dangers and plan carefully to avoid these potential hazards. Rich, fatty foods, like gravy or grease, can cause problems ranging from stomach upsets to pancreatitis , which is an inflammation of the pancreas resulting in pain, vomiting, and dehydration. Pets with this serious condition often require hospitalization for treatment.
Alcohol can cause serious intoxications in pets, and many pets are attracted to it.
Every year hundreds of dogs die after a single bout of alcohol consumption. Clean up glasses after Christmas parties. Pets are often attracted by the sweet taste of drinks, especially eggnog. Chocolate , coffee, and tea all contain dangerous components called xanthines, which cause nervous system or urinary system damage and heart muscle stimulation. Chocolate, with theobromine, is especially a problem because pets love its flavor.