Tips to Keep Your Cavalier Safe During Holiday Festivities

The holiday season brings the opportunity to share in some wonderful festivities with family and friends, however, it’s also a time of year to be extra diligent about keeping holiday decorations and treats away from your very inquisitive Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. Here are a few helpful reminders as we head full steam ahead toward a December filled with holiday cheer:

• According to the American Kennel Club’s Chief Veterinary Officer, Dr. Jerry Klein, DVM, while poinsettias are not AS toxic as some believe, they can still cause significant reactions like vomiting and diarrhea in your dog. Lesser known holiday plants that are even MORE toxic are holly, mistletoe, azaleas, and certain evergreens.
• Chocolate, of course, contains chemicals that will speed up your dog’s heart and affect its nervous system, so great care should be taken to never share this delicious treat. And bear in mind that the darker the chocolate is, the more toxic it is, as well.
• Tinsel is definitely eye-catching and tempting to investigate, but if swallowed, it could get caught in in your dog’s intestines and potentially lead to an obstruction that could require abdominal surgery.
• Bread dough is toxic for dogs, so be certain not to leave your baking efforts unattended.
• And finally, alcohol can have a major negative effect on your dog’s kidneys and nerves, so be sure to keep your dog from sharing your holiday spirits with you

Keeping all of these things in mind when you are enjoying the festivities will ensure that everyone has a safe and happy holiday season, which is what we wish for you here at Gillcrest Cavaliers!