Pet And Animal Safety Can Be A Concern During Holidays, Auburn Experts Say

By Mitch Emmons, Auburn University

The holiday season is upon us, and the Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine reminds pet owners that the safety and well-being of their animals is important during the holidays and year-round.

Dog and cat owners should pay special attention to their pets.

“We bring new things into our homes that are not commonly around except during the holiday season,” said Missy Streicher, a certified veterinary technician with the college’s Wilford and Kate Bailey Small Animal Teaching Hospital.

She says allergic reactions can be a concern, and that pet owners should take care to reduce the possibility of having items in their homes that can trigger allergies.

“Many animals are allergic to evergreens,” said Streicher, who works in the Dermatology Service of the teaching hospital. “People also tend to indulge in spicy and holiday-rich foods during this time of the year. Many of those can trigger allergic reactions in pets if the pet eats them.”

Pet owners should beware of how easily their dog or cat might have access to food items such as spices, chocolates or alcohol. All can be toxic to a pet if consumed and should not be left where a pet can get to them.

To read the full article, please visit the Alabama NewsCenter website.

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