Animals

Happy (and Waggy, Purry) Holidays!

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As you enjoy the holidays, these tips from the County Department of Animals Services can help assure comfort and joy for your furry family members too!

Christmas is a magical time in many households, with its own traditions and lots of family and friends about. But try to keep your pet’s routines as normal as possible, including the animal’s feeding and walking schedule.

Some animals many love all the festivities and excitement, but other cats and dogs get nervous around company. Be sure your dog or cat has a safe place to get away from the guests, especially children.

Many kitties find that sparkly, stringy tinsel irresistible. They bat it around and even carry it in their mouths. But if they swallow it, they may suffer an obstructed digestive tract, severe vomiting and dehydration and may even need surgery.

Most dog owners know by now that they should never let their pet have chocolate. But enterprising pooches will poach, so make sure the candy is well out of reach.  

Keep the pets away from festive foliage. Holly, mistletoe and poinsettias can all cause gastrointestinal upset if pets ingest them.   

If after careful thought you have decided to give an animal as a gift, why not give a gift certificate from a County shelter and let the recipient pick out their lifetime family member? That ensures a good match.

For more information about shelter location and hours and animals available for adoption, visit the County’s Department of Animal Services at www.sddac.com.