Enjoying the Holidays with your Mixed Breed Dog

Making plans for the Holidays? Don't leave out your dog! The Holidays can be lots of fun for both you and your pet; however, they can also hold many dangers, especially for your dog. This article will explore several aspects of holiday festivities that can be particularly hazardous to our canine friends and companions -- costumes, decorations, and treats.

Costumes, for both us and our pets can be an important part of the Holidays. And while dressing up is a lot of fun, it can also be very traumatic, even dangerous, for your dog. Dogs may be easily frightened by fun loving witches, goblins, pilgrims, Indians, and even by Santa himself. Be mindful of this when approaching your pet while in costume. Your dog may not know it's you and panic or even attack.

If you decide to dress up your dog be wary of costumes with masks, hats, or other headgear attached with elastic or rubber bands. These can cause discomfort or even injury to your pet, and could be fatal if swallowed.

Decorations are everywhere during the holidays. Banners, streamers, and plants are in doorways, on tables, and throughout our homes. Strings, foil, wrappers, ribbons, and other such decorations are easily chewed or shredded and may cause serious harm to your pet. Be cautious when using these items and keep them out of your dog's reach. If you use stencils, artificial snow, or similar decorating products be sure they are labeled as non-toxic. Also remember that many decorative plants (i.e.: holly, poinsettia, mistletoe, etc.) are poisonous to dogs and may cause vomiting, diarrhea, and even death.

Treats and other foods may also be harmful to your dog. Those greasy, fatty, festive foods that we humans eat for the Holidays can cause havoc on your pet's digestive system. Inform your guests not to give your dog food from the dinner table. Poultry skin, fat trimmings, rich gravies, and buttery sauces can cause vomiting and diarrhea and bones can splinter and cause serious injury or even death. Also, remember that an ounce of alcoholic beverage can put a small dog into a coma.

You dog was born with a sweet tooth, so be sure to keep chocolate candy and baking ingredients out of it's reach. Chocolate contains a compound called theobromine that can be fatal if ingested by dogs. A few ounces of milk chocolate can cause vomiting and diarrhea in small to medium dogs, while an ounce or two of baker's chocolate can be lethal.

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