Season's Greetings! 

Let me take this opportunity to underscore some important considerations for you pet owners during the holidays.  Certain holiday plants -- mistletoe & holly -- are known to be toxic to animals, and others like poinsettia can cause severe nausea & diarrhea or worse.  Be mindful to keep your holiday plants out of your dog's reach.

Also, just a note to point out that dogs have been known to eat glass Christmas ornaments and chew through extension cords for Christmas tree lights.  It's not common, but it's certainly something to be aware of and hopefully to avoid.

And finally, this is the time of year where treats are abundant.  Many of the foods and treats we enjoy are toxic or harmful to dogs and cats.  The truth of the matter is that the safest step is to only give our pets treats and food that have been specifically created for them.  Toxic items include chocolates, macadamia nuts, grapes/raisins, avocados and sugar-free mints/gum with xylitol.  During the holidays, be aware that your dogs would love to get into your yeast dough and turkey, both of which can have serious effects.  Regarding that Christmas turkey, know that turkey skin or fat-laden table scraps can cause pancreatitis or other life-threatening conditions.  It's not worth the risk.  (No GRAVY!)  It goes without saying....but I'll say it anyway:  Never let your pet consume alcohol.

Please be careful and make this a safe, enjoyable holiday for yourself, your family AND your pets!  Happy Holidays!

Special thanks to Vet Info for providing a comprehensive list of pet dangers & toxins.