The winter months and the New Year bring joy, but they also present unique hazards for our beloved pets. Here are some helpful tips to consider for the season 

❄️ Winter Weather Safety Tips for Dogs & Cats ❄️ 

*   Protect from the Cold: 

• Limit Outdoor Time: Pets can suffer from hypothermia and frostbite, especially short-haired breeds, puppies, kittens, and senior animals. Keep outdoor excursions brief. 

• Provide Shelter: If your pet must be outside, ensure they have a warm, dry, draft-free shelter with clean bedding. 

• Wipe Paws: After walks, wipe your dog’s paws to remove ice, snow, and potentially toxic de-icing chemicals like road salt or antifreeze. Consider booties for extra protection. 

• Antifreeze is Deadly: Antifreeze has a sweet taste that attracts pets but is highly toxic. Clean up spills immediately and store products safely out of reach. 

*   Indoor Warmth: 

• Avoid Space Heaters: Keep pets away from space heaters, fireplaces, and other heat sources to prevent burns. 

• Check Under Cars: Outdoor cats may seek warmth under car hoods. Check before starting your engine to scare them away. 

 🎄 Holiday Season Safety Tips for Dogs & Cats 🎄 

Decorations: 

• Christmas Trees: Remove trees before they dry out and start heavily dropping needles, drooping or falling. Don’t forget to keep pets from drinking tree water, which can contain fertilizers and bacteria. 

• Ornaments & Tinsel: As you remove your decorations remember glass ornaments can break and cause injuries. Tinsel is especially attractive to cats but can cause severe intestinal blockages if ingested. 

• Lights & Wires: Chewing on electrical cords can lead to burns, shocks, or even electrocution. 

  Toxic Plants: 

• Poinsettias: Generally low toxicity, but can cause mild gastrointestinal upset. 

• Mistletoe & Holly: Can cause more serious gastrointestinal issues and cardiovascular problems. 

• Lilies: Highly toxic to cats, even small amounts can cause kidney failure. Keep all lilies out of reach! 

Festive Foods: 

• Chocolate: Contains theobromine, which is toxic to dogs and cats. Dark chocolate and baking chocolate are the most dangerous. 

• Xylitol: A sugar substitute found in many sugar-free products (gum, candy, baked goods) is highly toxic to dogs, causing a rapid drop in blood sugar and liver failure. 

• Fatty Foods: Rich, fatty foods (gravy, turkey skin, ham) can cause pancreatitis, a painful and serious inflammation of the pancreas. 

• Bones: Cooked bones can splinter and cause choking or internal damage. 

• Alcohol: Even small amounts can be dangerous. 

• Yeast Dough: Can expand in the stomach, causing pain and potentially life-threatening bloat. 

Stress & Visitors: 

• Quiet Space: Provide a safe, quiet retreat for your pet away from the hustle and bustle of holiday gatherings and parties. 

• Routine: Try to maintain your pet’s regular feeding and exercise schedule as much as possible. 

• Supervision: Be mindful of open doors and gates with guests coming and going to prevent escapes. 

If you suspect your pet has ingested something toxic or is showing signs of illness or injury, please contact us immediately or go to your nearest emergency veterinary clinic. 

Wishing you and your furry family a safe and happy New Year and 2026!