SAN ANTONIO – With the arrival of the holiday season, Animal Care Services is offering the top 10 tips for pet owners so their furry friends can also have a safe and happy Thanksgiving.
While some might seem obvious, others serve as a good reminder for pet parents.
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1. Pay attention to your companion animal. Pets are often ignored in the rush and excitement of the holidays. This can lead to mischief.
2. Unsure how your pet will react to all the new faces in the house? Create a safe, comfortable place for your pet to relax. Make sure you put out plenty of fresh food, water and toys.
3. Traveling with your pet during the holiday? Make sure you bring all your pet’s supplies including food, dishes, leash and collar, toys as well as any medications your pet may need.
4. Ensure your pet has some form of identification should they get lost like an engraved tag with your contact number or a microchip ID. ACS offers free microchips during regular business hours for City of San Antonio residents.
5. If your dog will be staying with a friend, a pet sitter or at a boarding kennel during the holiday, make arrangements well in advance to avoid any last-minute hassles.
6. Holiday goodies should be kept away from your pet. Chocolate and raisins can actually be toxic to many animals.
7. Don’t give your pet food off of the table. Holiday foods can be hard on your animal’s stomach and may lead to issues of the intestinal variety.
8. Candies and gums with the artificial sweetener Xylitol can also be toxic to pets.
9. Poultry bones, including turkey, are a choking hazard.
10. Giving alcohol to a pet--even a sip or two--is dangerous and could be fatal.
If your pet's animal hospital is closed for the holiday, people can call the Pet Poison Control Center at 1-888-426-4435 or check local listings for the nearest emergency animal hospital.