Donate Today

Winter Precautions for Your Puppy: A Holiday Guide

Seasons Greetings!

We want you to have a happy and safe winter season. While you are preparing for the holidays, be aware of the following things which can be hazardous to your puppy: 

Christmas

  • Holiday plants: Christmas Rose, Holly, Lilies, Christmas Cactus, Ivy, Cyclamen, Amaryllis, Paper whites, Poinsettia, and Mistletoe are all toxic to cats and dogs. 
  • Ribbons: Placing a ribbon about your dog’s neck can cause him to choke. Ingestion can cause damage to the intestinal tract. 
  • Christmas lights: Older forms of bubbling lights may contain methylene chloride, which is a highly toxic chemical. Lights may be more tempting to your puppy because they are more accessible. Be careful of electrical cord placement, as chewing on electrical cords can cause burns or electrocution. 
  • Christmas tree water: Stagnant tree water or water containing preservatives can cause stomach upset if ingested. 
  • Decoration hooks: Can cause blockage and/or trauma to the gastrointestinal tract if swallowed. 
  • Styrofoam: Can cause your puppy to choke if swallowed. 
  • Ornaments: These can look like toys to your puppy. Keep them out of reach or restrict access to the tree so they do not pose a risk for injury. 
  • Tinsel: Can cause choking or internal trauma if swallowed. 

New Years

  • Balloons and confetti: These can pose an obstruction or choking hazard to your puppy if ingested. Keep a close eye on your puppy around these items or close your puppy in a safe area. 
  • Loud noises: New Year’s is typically a noisy holiday, with loud cheering, singing, banging of pots, noisemakers, and/or fireworks. Some puppies are sensitive to noise, and many are sensitive to it in combination with other noises or commotion. Keep your puppy in a quiet, safe area, with a favorite blanket and/or special toy to help keep him calm. 
  • Alcohol: Alcoholic beverages are toxic to your puppy and should NEVER be given to him. If ingested, call your veterinarian immediately.

ANTIFREEZE 

Even in very tiny doses, antifreeze is lethal poison for dogs and cats. Unfortunately, because of its sweet taste, animals are attracted to it. Be sure to thoroughly clean up any spills from your vehicle. 

  • Symptoms of antifreeze poisoning include loss of coordination, vomiting, and rapid heart and respiratory rate. Symptoms can progress to kidney failure, uremia and acidosis, coma and even death. *If your puppy even licks antifreeze, take him to the veterinarian immediately!* 

Paw Care

Some dogs experience cracking and rawness on their pads in the winter. To prevent this from happening, wash your puppy’s toes and pads with warm water after walks. Remove any salt residue and dry them thoroughly. You can also use Musher’s Secret paw protection wax if needed, but no booties! Salt, antifreeze, or other chemicals can hurt your dog if ingested while licking their paws.

Snow – Eating snow can cause vomiting and diarrhea in some dogs, so please monitor their activity in the snow.

Hope you all have a very Happy (and safe!) Holidays. Contact your group leader or area coordinator with any questions or concerns.