Holiday Reminders

The holidays are a great time to reunite with family and friends, especially for those wonderful canines we own. There is plenty of food and drink around for our lovely golden retrievers to smell and attract their attention around the clock. Here are a few simple precautions you can take to ensure a safe holiday for your pet.

• Refrain from offering any table scraps to your dogs. These holiday foods, such as poultry skin and gravy, may cause severe intestinal problems and diarrhea. Also, poultry bones may splinter and cause internal bleeding.

• Remember golden retrievers are opportunistic at times and counter surf. Place your foods away from any counter or table edge. This should include any gingerbread houses or candy dishes left on any surfaces.

• Beverages such as alcohol and coffee can cause major problems for your golden depending on the amount that is consumed.

• Heart issues can arise from the consumption of chocolate so remove all chocolate from the prying noses of your dog.

• Other foods that could potentially cause tremors, seizures, and abdominal issues: bread dough, grapes, raisins, and macadamia nuts.

• Xylitol - Xylitol is a non-sugar sweetener used in the creation of sugar free foods. It is highly toxic to dogs and can cause liver damage.

• Take the time to write down the contact information for you

r nearest pet emergency hospital. At a time of crisis, this handy reminder will save time and help you get your pet to the nearest emergency room veterinarian.

If your dogs is showing signs of any of the following conditions, you should seek immediate medical attention for your pet.

• lethargy, weakness, being excessively tired, depression or sluggishness
• urine color changes from yellow to orange or even red.
• vomiting
• muscle tremors, seizures, irregular heart rhythm, restlessness
• higher than normal body temperature
• excessive thirst

If the pet vomits, take a picture with your smartphone in order to show your vet. It may reveal details of what was ingested by your golden.

So during this holiday season, take a few extra precautions to ensure your golden retriever remains safe from any unexpected emergencies.

Happy Holidays from GRCGLAR.

Sources - ASPCA