Last Minute Shopping and Holiday Hazards for Pets

Only a few more days of Holiday Shopping left. It will be very hard to buy and ship gifts at this late date, but you can go to our website and still have time to shop for Amazon Gift Cards and Gift of Rescue.

Please read below about all the holiday hazards for our furry friends.

AZGRC Gift of Rescue

For the love of the Goldens…. AZGRC’s annual holiday fundraiser, the Gift of Rescue, is now underway! This year's collectible holiday ornament is a symbol of our love for our four legged friends.  There are only 100 of these special ornaments.  Don't miss your chance to add this one to your collection.  Click here:  http://www.azgrc.org/waysToGive/GiftRescue/2014/GiftRescue_2014.html

http://smile.amazon.com/ref=smi_ge_rl_rd_gw?_encoding=UTF8&ein=86-1007004

There is still time to buy gift cards and send to your favorite person. 

Winter Plants:  Although they look pretty, many holiday plants can be poisonous to pets.  Mistletoe, Poinsettias, Holly and Christmas Cactus are all extremely toxic and can cause severe gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, and neurologic effects if ingested.  Christmas trees are also hazardous because not only are the pine needles poisonous, but also because of the bacteria and fertilizer harbored in the water stands (which pets are known to drink).  Additionally, decorations such as tinsel can also be very noxious if consumed.

Festive Foods:  Meats and sweets are treats that pets beg for, but are serious no no’s when it comes to your pet’s health.  Turkey and other holiday meats are very high in protein, but if meats in their natural form are not a regular part of their diet, they can be hard to digest, which can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, or inflammation of the pancreas.  Chocolate may be the best-known food danger for pets because it contains caffeine.  Dogs in particular do not metabolize these stimulants in their liver, and elevations in heart rate, blood pressure, or even seizures, coma, or death can occur.  Of course, all candy is high in sugar, which can cause digestive issues for all pets.
“During the holiday season, we want to ensure that everyone enjoys a fun and safe celebration, which includes taking a few extra precautions for your beloved pets,” remarked Dr. Patrick Mahaney.  “Just avoiding the hazardous elements that pose even a remote threat to your pets could make a huge difference in their health and wellness.”

Heating Sources:  Pets may enjoy cozying up near the fireplace to bask in the warmth, but this activity is dangerous because of the exposure to flames and increased temperatures that can potentially burn their skin.  In addition, pet parents need to be extra cautious when exposing their furry friends to electric blankets and space heaters because these electrical items can become toxic or harmful.