| DECEMBER 16, 2011 -- Dr. Rodger Foster, a Plainville resident who practices veterinarian medicine at Southington Veterinary Associates, spoke in early December at the Southington Grange No. 25 about safety precautions for pet owners during the holidays.
He advised that the surprise of pets as gifts is not always a good idea. He suggested helping someone go pick out a pet, only if they decide they want one as a gift. This will ensure the recipient is willing to care for it.
Foster touched on what pets might inadvertently eat this holiday season. Pet owners should beware of forbidden foods (chocolate, table scraps), foreign bodies (tinsel) and plants (lilies).
"Cats do not have as many gastrointestinal issues as dogs," Foster said. "Their stomachs are not as sensitive as dogs."
Chocolate can have a toxic effect on dogs. Two chocolate bars can land a large Labrador retriever in the hospital with tremors and diarrhea due to a caffeine-like chemical in the chocolate. Foster advised always keeping garbage cans and bags sealed, as spoiled food, or even high fat can cause pancreatitis in dogs. "Never give pork products to a dog," Foster said. Occasional lean beef or chicken is OK, he said.
Cats have more issues with ingesting foreign bodies. Cats love to play with bits of tinsel from the Christmas tree. Once they swallow it, the tinsel can perforate their bowel.
Contrary to popular belief, poinsettias are not poisonous to animals, but lilies are "exceedingly toxic" according to Foster. Cats are more prone to eat them and can suffer kidney failure from just a small sprig.
With a houseful of holiday family and friends, pets may become stressed from all the commotion, Foster said. He suggested giving a mild veterinary sedative, rather than an anti-anxiety drug, which could take two to three weeks to take effect.
With these tips, animals and their owners can relax and enjoy the fun of this holiday season, he told the Grange crowd.
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