Blustery winter weather has arrived in Ohio a little early this year.  With Thanksgiving just days away, and already having seen some snow and more on the way, it’s time to turn our thoughts to the holidays and cold winter ahead.  In the hustle and bustle of preparing holidays feats, shopping for that perfect gift, or preparing for the impending snow, it’s important to not forget about our furry friends.  Here’re some things to think about as winter weather and the holidays approach.

v      Temperatures fluctuate almost daily here in Ohio.  Some pets don’t mind the cold weather.  Some might even enjoy it!  But for many of our dogs used to living inside, the thought of going outside, even just for a quick potty trip, makes them shiver.  Be sure to be in tune to your dog and the weather outside.  Some dogs, especially dogs with short hair, may need a sweater or coat for trips outside.  Don’t leave your dog outside for long periods of time.

                  If you have a dog who prefers to live outside, be sure to provide adequate shelter               from the wind and warm, dry bedding.  You will also likely have to chip ice from                          the water bowl a few times a day.

v      There are dogs who dislike the snow so much they refuse to set paw in it to potty.  You may have to clear snow from a spot of grass for your dog to potty.

v      Wipe your pet’s paws when they come inside to clear them of ice and snow.  Check carefully for any cuts on the pads or balls of ice in the fur.

v      Cats living outside may decide your car looks like a good shelter from the cold wind.  Bang your hood or honk your horn before starting your car to scare any cats from under the hood of your car.

v      Holiday decorations inside and outside attract pets who may try to play with them or eat them.  Keep this in mind as you decorate your home for the holidays.  Ornaments, trinkets, ribbons, fake snow, tinsel, strands of lights, and more are potential hazards to consider.

v      Make sure your Christmas tree is secure, as curious kitties may climb it or dogs may stand up against it.

v      Holiday feasts are enjoyed by all, but don’t let your pets enjoy your holiday feast!  Human foods that are hazardous to pets include chocolate, grapes/raisins, some candy/gum (contains Xylitol), alcohol, caffeine, macadamia nuts, onions, garlic & chives.  Any human food can cause your pet to have an upset stomach, including vomiting and diarrhea, or even pancreatitis.  Poultry bones can splinter and cause problems internally, including becoming stuck in the stomach or intestines, requiring emergency surgery.  It’s best to avoid all bones and human food.

v      Holidays are a busy time with people in and out often, rushing here and there.  Make sure you keep an eye on your pets.  If you have friends and family over for a party or meal, consider securing your pets in a separate room with a treat of their own.  This way they can remain safe and calm, unable to slip out the door or snatch a snack from the table or a guest.

Keep these things in mind and you and your pets will enjoy a warm winter and safe holidays!

Suburban Animal Clinic will close at 4:30pm on Wednesday, Nov. 27 and remain closed Thursday, Nov. 28 so that we may enjoy the Thanksgiving holiday with our family.  We will reopen Friday, Nov. 29 at 7:00am for normal business.

If you have an emergency, please contact MedVet at 614-846-5800 or Capital Veterinary Referral and Emergency Service at 614-870-0480.

Suburban Animal Clinic is located in West Columbus off I-70 near I-270. Suburban Animal Clinic serves Galloway, Hilltop, West Side, Georgesville, West Jefferson, Grove City, Grandview, Upper Arlington (including OSU Campus area), Hilliard and Dublin.