Easter is just around the corner: the spring holiday falls on April 21st this year. Just like any other seasonal celebration, however, Easter does present some specific dangers to our furry pals. Read on as a Roanoke, VA vet lists some hazards for pet owners to be aware of.
Easter Trappings
Many people celebrate the spring holiday with big, delicious feasts. People food isn’t always safe for pets, however, so be careful with what you give your four-legged pal. Garlic, onions, scallions, and chives are all toxic to Fluffy and Fido, as are pitted fruits, alcohol, caffeine, and products containing xylitol. Grapes, currants, and raisins are on the no-no list as well, as are meat on the bone and raw meat, dough, and yeast. Chocolate is another concern: in large doses, it can even be fatal to pets!
Trappings
Keep pets in mind if you decorate for Easter. Those thin plastic strips you often find in Easter baskets are serious choking hazards. Fluffy and Fido could also accidentally ingest them, which could cause serious internal injuries. Chocolate, as noted above, is poisonous to pets, so keep those chocolate eggs and bunnies out of paws’ reach. Plastic eggs—especially small ones—are also dangerous, as are hard candies.
Bouquets
Many popular flowers, such as tulips, lilies, and oleanders, are toxic to pets. Roses are another concern, though in this case it’s because of the thorns, not toxicity. Play it safe, and keep bouquets in spots your furry buddy can’t reach. (Tip: you can find a full list of safe and unsafe plants online at the ASPCA website here.)
Parasites/Diseases
Fleas, ticks, and other parasites will return along with the warm weather. Keep up with your pet’s vaccinations and parasite control products. Better safe than sorry!
Allergens
Just like people, pets can suffer from allergies. For example, it isn’t uncommon for dogs to be allergic to trees, plants, leaves, grass, or pollen. If you think your furry buddy may have allergies, schedule a veterinary appointment right away. Tests will help confirm and identify your four-legged friend’s allergies. Once a proper diagnosis has been made, you’ll be able to discuss specific treatment options.
Heat
Sometimes the weather gets hot before we’re quite ready. Make sure that your pet has plenty of fresh water and shade.
Happy Easter! Please reach out to us, your local Roanoke, VA vet clinic, anytime.
