TREAT TRAP! DO NOT DO THIS!!

The holidays are a time for sharing, and for many of us, our pets are at the very top of our guest list. It’s wonderful to include them in the joy of the season. However, some of our favorite holiday treats don't sit well with our pets’ digestive systems.

Being a "health parent" means knowing which foods are okay to share and which are better left on the human table. Here is a simple guide to keeping your pet’s belly happy and healthy this Christmas.

The Big No-Nos: Common Household Toxins

Some foods are naturally difficult for pets to process. Even a small amount can make them feel very unwell.

1. Chocolate: Most of us know this one, but it’s worth a reminder! Chocolate contains a substance that pets can't break down easily. Generally, the darker the chocolate, the more dangerous it is.

2. Grapes and Raisins: These are often found in fruitcakes and festive salads. For reasons experts are still studying, these can be very hard on a dog's kidneys. It’s best to keep these completely out of reach.

3. Onions and Garlic: Whether they are fresh, dried, or in a powder (like in your stuffing or gravy), these can hurt a pet's red blood cells over time.

The Hidden Dangers in Holiday Cooking

When we are busy in the kitchen, it’s easy for things to drop on the floor or for pets to "help" themselves to ingredients.

1. Sugar-Free Treats (Xylitol): Many "diet" or sugar-free sweets use a sweetener called Xylitol. While safe for humans, it can cause a pet's blood sugar to drop much too quickly. Always check the label on peanut butter or baked goods.

2. Bread Dough: If you are baking fresh rolls, keep the raw dough away from your pets. The warmth of their stomach can make the dough rise inside them, which is very uncomfortable and can cause a bloated tummy.

3. Macadamia Nuts: These are a holiday favorite for many, but they can cause temporary weakness or "wobbliness" in a dog’s back legs.

Rich Foods and Trimmings 

We all love the buttery, savory flavors of Christmas dinner, but pets have much more sensitive stomachs than we do.

❌ Fatty Scraps: Giving your pet turkey skin, ham fat, or heavy gravy might seem like a treat, but too much fat at once can cause a very upset stomach or a condition called pancreatitis (an inflamed tummy).

❌ Cooked Bones: While it’s tempting to give a dog a bone from the roast, cooked bones become brittle. They can splinter easily and get stuck in a pet's throat or stomach.

How to Be a Great "Health Parent" This Season

If you think your pet has eaten something they shouldn't have, the best thing to do is give your veterinarian a quick call. They can tell you if it's something to worry about or if you just need to keep an eye on them.

A Healthy Way to Celebrate:

If you want to give your pet a special Christmas meal, stick to the basics! A little bit of plain, cooked turkey meat (no skin or bones), some steamed carrots, or a few green beans are delicious and perfectly safe.

By keeping these simple tips in mind, you're ensuring that the whole family including the ones with four legs has a healthy and happy holiday!

MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A PROSPEROUS NEW YEAR 🎊