HOLIDAY HEALTH TIPS TO HELP MAKE THE SEASON BRIGHT FOR PETS
"We see an increased number of calls related to pet poisoning during
the time between Thanksgiving and New Year's," says Dr. Steven
Hansen, director of the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (APCC).
Here's one holiday list you can use to keep the furry members of your
family happy and healthy this season.

Season's eatings shouldn't include holiday greenery such as holly,
mistletoe, lilies and amaryllis. While commonly used to deck the
halls, they can make your pet sick if ingested.

Look before you light. Lit candles produce fumes that can be harmful
to birds if inhaled. And don't forget, your pet's wagging tail can
easily knock over a burning candle. Liquid potpourri is also
dangerous to pets, who could ingest it from decorative bowls and
simmering pots.

Oh, Christmas tree! Their branches definitely delight pets, who've
been known to chew on them--and whatever decorations may be hanging
from them. Place small, breakable ornaments high up, and keep tinsel
and garland out of your pet's reach, as these can get caught in his
throat. And make sure that pine needles, which can be toxic, don't
get eaten.

Keep batteries--loose and in packages--away from pets. They contain
corrosives that can cause ulceration in your animal companion's
mouth, tongue and gastrointestinal tract if bitten or swallowed.

Shy animals can get stressed with the hustle and bustle of holiday
guests, so make sure there's a quiet room to which your pets can
retreat.

Don't allow your pet access to holiday spreads, especially if you've
got a chow hound. Alcoholic beverages, chocolate, coffee, onions,
fatty foods, yeast dough and macadamia nuts can all cause problems.

If you suspect your pet has gotten into a potentially poisonous
substance, call your veterinarian or the APCC's emergency hotline--1-
888-4-ANI-HELP--for round-the-clock telephone assistance. For more
information on poison prevention, visit APCC online.

Posted on SHARE Yahoo group - Dec. 7, 2001