November 14, 2006 “TIS THE SEASON” (Hinsdale, IL – November 27, 2006). This year, as you get ready to “deck the halls” and prepare for a visit from “jolly old St. Nick”, the Chicago Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA) offers these holiday to tips to make the yuletide bright for you and your four-legged friends. • “Hang up the Holly”…but not where your dog or can reach it. Both holly and mistletoe are poisonous when eaten and should be in an area where pets cannot nibble. Same for the seasonal poinsettia. While the plant itself is not poisonous per se, poinsettia sap and leaves may cause serious gastric distress in your pet. So keep these seasonal plants out of pet traveled areas. • Oh Christmas Tree….Make sure your tree is well secured by anchoring the top of the tree to the wall or ceiling. This will prevent a “tree climbing” feline or a happy, heavy tail from toppling your tree. If your tree is real, avoid using preservatives in the tree stand water. Many preservatives can cause stomach upsets as will sugar or aspirin water if ingested. It is best to make the tree stand inaccessible and/or hidden, and to use plain water to keep the tree hydrated. When decorating your tree, make certain sharp or fragile ornaments are out of pet’s reach. Tinsel icicles, string and small ornaments are easy to swallow and dangerous to digest. It is best to not use these items if your pets have easy access to your tree. • Make sure all electrical cords for holiday lights are secured and out of sight. A “stray” cord is tempting for a kitten or puppy to play with or chew on, and can cause serious injury, so tack down or cover cords. • Wrap your presents, not your pet! Never put ribbons around your pet’s neck. In addition to being a choking hazard, if swallowed, they can cause an intestinal obstruction or bunching of the intestine – often requiring surgery to repair. Also, don’t let pets play with plastic or foil wrap, which can cause choking or digestive problems as well. • Never leave you pet near an unattended fireplace or candle. Make certain your fireplace has the appropriate screens to protect against stray sparks and embers. If burning festive candles, keep them in an area where curious paws or happy tails can’t reach. • The increased activity and number of visitors to your home during the holiday season may upset your pet’s normal routine. Try to keep your pet on his/her regular schedule for meals, exercise and play. When hosting parties, feed your pet before hand to help decrease the urge to beg and scavenge for food and treats. Always put your leftover food away and “pet proof” your trash. Plastic wrap and baggies; six-pack beverage holders; fat trimmings and bones are all dangerous if ingested. And never feed your pet chocolate, macadamia nuts, xylitol-sweetened gum or candy, or alcoholic beverages. All can cause serious health problems for your four-legged family member. Better to share a few more of their favorite treats/cookies than to offer them such human treats. The Chicago Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA) is an association of more than 1000 veterinarians and 4000 support staff who lovingly assist Chicago area pets and their families. Since 1896, the CVMA has been dedicated to the health and well-being of animals; providing its members with nationally recognized continuing education and professional services; and the community at large with public awareness and educational programming regarding the importance of appropriate pet care.