The winter holidays can be a challenge for your pet. It’s no secret that pets often go missing during this time and the number of visits to veterinary clinics increases. What should I pay attention to in order not to spoil the holidays for myself and my pet?
Fireworks and firecrackers
The ultimate test for many animals is the endless bursting of fireworks and firecrackers in the street. They frighten many animals and can injure dogs on walks. Above all, fireworks on New Year’s Eve are traumatic for domestic animals. Animals are stressed by the unpleasant and frightening sounds. They may become distracted in the apartment, hide in a corner, etc. If your cat reacts this way, get a special cat house. It will feel safe there and help it to cope with the stress of the holidays. If it’s a dog, you can try giving it a sedative.
Outdoors
To avoid physical injuries to your dog, do not take it with you on New Year’s Eve ice skatingdownhill. And in general, do not let your dog off the lead on walks if you can, as the main danger is outside. Try to walk in the morning or during the day where there are fewer people. This can reduce the chances of an animal being hit by pyrotechnics. If the burn is minor, it is necessary to wash the affected area several times a day with chlorhexidine and apply ointments to help the wound heal faster. Use a sterile bandage if possible during walks. If the wound is deep, a veterinary clinic should be contacted urgently.
Another danger is that a dog frightened by a firecracker explosion may run as far as the eye can see. Guests who forget to close the door in time may also accidentally let the animal out into the stairwell for a walk. Finding both the dog and the cat in such cases is not easy. To make the search easier, put your contacts on the animal’s collar. These can be engraved on a plaque or written on paper and put in a special locket.
Indoor animals
NewOn the eve of the annual party, it’s a good idea to keep cats and small dogs safe. If possible, it is best to move them to a quieter place so that they do not get bumped during the dancing, or so that one of the guests doesn’t sit down in a chair where the pet is napping.
And under no circumstances feed your pet food from the New Year’s table. Sometimes treats can be harmful to your pet’s health. New Year’s Eve treats from the table can cause an exacerbation of chronic gastrointestinal illnesses in your pet. Signs of overeating include vomiting yellowish liquid, diarrhoea, yellowing of the skin and visible mucous membranes, profuse salivation and refusal of food. In the event of similar symptoms, the animal should be shown to a veterinarian as soon as possible.
Forest and New Year decorations
The smell of the New Year tree attracts pets. However, remember that spines (even artificial ones) are very difficult to digest. Therefore, place the tree out of reach of pets, either on a table or other surface, or enclose it.