Hazardous Houseplants

Lilies, mistletoe, and poinsettias have become holiday favorites for many people. Whether you’re putting up a wreath or just adding some festive color to your tablescape, many traditional holiday plants can be poisonous for your pet. Some plants can cause mild symptoms like vomiting or depression, while others can be fatal to pets who consume large amounts. 

If you want to add any of these plants to your seasonal decor, make sure they’re out of reach. Hang your wreaths high and keep other plants away from spaces your pet spends a lot of time. If you really want to play it safe, opt for fake plants or choose something pet-friendly.

Forbidden Foods

When you’re enjoying a special meal, it’s hard not to want to share with your best friend. But when it comes to holiday dinners, there are simply too many hazards on the table. All the extra butter and the seasoning on the meat or the vegetables. It’s not just the food on your plate that can cause issues for your pet: bones, alcohol, and chocolate can all be fatal, too. 

If you really want to share food with your furry friend, your safest options are things like unseasoned, cooked sweet potatoes or pumpkin puree. But the best thing you can do is give them a special pet treat instead of human food. 

Dangerous Decorations

One thing we know about our pets—especially dogs—is that some of them will eat anything. But swallowing tinsel or chewing on string lights can be very dangerous. That’s why it’s your job to pet-proof your home by hiding cords and making sure the decorations you’re putting up are safe. If you can’t be home all day to supervise your pet, make sure they’re safely crated or gated off from any potential hazards.  

Frightening Fireworks

If you enjoy spending your New Year’s Eve lighting off or watching fireworks, just remember that the loud booms and sudden flashes can frighten your pets. To keep them safe, bring them inside before the celebrations start to keep them from running off. It might even help to close the blinds and use background noise like the TV or a fan.

NYE is one of the most common times of year for pets to go missing, so it’s important to make sure that their collar fits and their ID tags and microchip information are up to date. If your dog or cat has severe anxiety during fireworks, talk to your vet ahead of time. 

We’re Here When You Need Us

The holidays can be stressful for both pets and owners, and with the added stress, it’s better to ask questions before something becomes an emergency. So if you’re feeling a little unsure about what’s safe and what isn’t this season, don’t hesitate to reach out. At Anasazi Animal Clinic, we want to make sure your pets stay safe and out of trouble all season long.

Photo by Barna Morvai on Pexels used with permission under the creative commons license for commercial use 12/11/2025

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Meeting new people, changes in routine, new temptations, and all the extra noise can make the holidays stressful for pets as well. Taking a little time to prepare before your visitors knock on the door will make a big difference. Here’s how to keep your pets safe and calm this holiday season.

Keeping Your Pets Safe and Calm When You Have Holiday Guests

Provide a Safe Space

Even the friendliest pet can get overwhelmed with too much activity. Giving them a quiet room with their bed, water, and safe toys can be a lifesaver. If they choose to go there, let them. They’re not being rude, they’re just taking a break.

And if your pet doesn’t want to greet visitors or be petted, that’s okay. Advocate for them. Letting your guests (and their kids) know that your cat or dog would like some space can go a long way toward preventing stress and misunderstandings. 

Prepare for the Greetings

Nobody wants their pet to get lost, especially over the holidays. With doors opening and closing all the time for visitors and deliveries, the risk of escapes increases. Just in case your pet gets scared and dashes outside or your little nephew forgets to close the gate, be on the lookout for escape routes. And when you know guests will be arriving, it’s best to keep your pet safely shut in your bedroom. 

Once your visitors are inside, you’ll need to keep everyone comfortable. Some dogs are jumpers, and some children get nervous around animals. It’s important to know your pet and your visitors. To put everyone at ease, it may be a good idea to keep your pet on a leash or crate them while your visitors arrive. Once things start to calm down, you can let them out for introductions. 

Watch Out for Holiday Hazards

Holiday foods, dropped snacks, and tempting trash are all things pets will go for given the chance. If your pet is a counter jumper, keep them out of the kitchen or make sure any tempting foods are out of reach. Even something as simple as a plate pushed a few inches back can save you from a very stressful emergency vet visit. 

Other hazards include being shut in a bathroom or closed off in a room your pet shouldn’t be in. If you’re unable to supervise your pet at all times, it’s better to keep them somewhere safe like a crate or private room.

Praise and Reward Your Pets

Don’t forget to praise your pets throughout the day. A calm greeting, a quiet sit, or dropping that turkey bone on demand are all reward-worthy feats. Keep their favorite treats within reach, and make sure to take some time out for snuggles. It’s those little things that help them stay relaxed when everything else feels different. 

If You and Your Pet Are the Visitors

Holiday stress isn’t limited to home turf. If you’re bringing your pet along to someone else’s house, plan for the whole length of your visit, not just the drive over. Bring their crate, bed or blanket, their food, a leash, and some toys to keep them busy. 

And make sure you have a safe space for your pet at your host’s home, especially if it isn’t “pet-friendly.” Not everyone keeps holiday plants, medications, or food tucked away like you do. A quiet room or even a crate can keep your pet safe while you enjoy your visit. 

Help Your Pet Have a Calm Holiday

Every pet handles the holidays differently. Just like us, some love the extra people and attention, and others would rather skip the whole thing. Paying attention to their comfort level is the best way to help them cope with visitors. But just in case, it’s a good idea to get your pet microchipped as a precaution.

At Anasazi Animal Clinic, we want every pet to enjoy the holidays. If you notice any changes in your pet’s behavior, or you’re worried they got into something they shouldn’t have, give us a call. We’ll help calm your worries and give your pet treatment if they need it. 

Photo by Photo by Emmalee Couturier on Unsplash used with permission under the creative commons license for commercial use 12/01/2025

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If your pet hides under the bed or paces restlessly during a storm, there are a few things you can do to help them feel more secure. From “thundershirts” and supplements to vet-prescribed medications, here’s how to keep your pet safe and calm. 

Why Pets React to Loud Noises

Fireworks and thunderstorms often trigger a pet’s natural fight-or-flight response. The sounds are sudden, unpredictable, and far louder than anything they hear on a normal day. Some animals even experience noise phobias, where the fear becomes intense enough to cause panic or destructive behavior. 

Signs of noise anxiety in pets can include:

• Trembling or shaking
• Hiding or trying to escape
• Excessive panting or drooling
• Whining, barking, or yowling
• Accidents in the house
• Destructive behavior like chewing or clawing

Storms and fireworks are one of the top reasons pets go missing in the summer. Make sure your pet is microchipped and wears a collar with up-to-date contact info. If your pet does run off, ID tags and microchips make it much more likely that they’ll be returned to you safely. 

How to Keep Your Pet Calm During Fireworks or Thunderstorms

If your pet gets anxious during fireworks or storms, here are a few things that can help them stay calm and safe.

1. Make a Safe Hiding Place

Before the noise begins, set up a quiet, comfortable area where your pet can retreat. This might be a cozy spot in the closet, bathroom, or laundry room. Add familiar items like a favorite blanket, crate, or toy to make it feel safe and familiar.

Close the windows and blinds to muffle outside sounds and block flashing lights. You can also try playing soft music or turning on a white noise machine to help mask the thunder. 

2. Try Calming Products

There are several pet-safe products designed to ease anxiety during loud events:

• Thundershirts are snug-fitting wraps that help dogs and cats feel secure—kind of like a weighted blanket for pets.
• Calming sprays or diffusers can help, but be cautious with essential oil blends. Not all ingredients are safe for pets, so it’s best to talk to your vet and read labels carefully.
• Supplements like chews or treats made with ingredients like L-theanine can help reduce stress, but talk to your vet first.

It’s a good idea to test any new product in advance, so your pet gets used to it before a storm or fireworks celebration starts. 

3. Stay Calm and Stay Home (If You Can)

Your pet picks up on your emotions, so staying calm yourself can help them relax, too. If you know a storm or fireworks show is coming up, plan to stay home if possible. Your presence alone can be reassuring.

If you have to leave, make sure your pet is secured inside with easy access to their safe space. Never leave pets outdoors during fireworks or storms—they could panic and run off, or hurt themselves trying to escape.

4. Talk to Your Vet About Medication

For pets with severe anxiety, calming supplements might not be enough. In those cases, your veterinarian can prescribe anti-anxiety medication or sedatives to help your pet stay calm during high-stress events. If your pet has reacted badly in the past, it’s worth having a conversation ahead of the next storm season or holiday.

How We Can Help

If your pet struggles with noise anxiety or you’re worried about how they’ll handle Arizona’s storm season, we’re here to help. From microchipping and anxiety management to customized care plans, the team at Anasazi Animal Clinic can help you prepare.

Contact us today to schedule a visit or talk with one of our veterinarians. We’re always happy to help your pets feel safe, calm, and cared for—no matter what the forecast brings.

Photo by Reba Spike on Unsplash used with permission under the creative commons license for commercial use 6/25/2025

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Tips for Traveling with Pets

• Always make sure that your pet is wearing a collar with an ID tag securely attached. If you’re traveling to another state, it’s a good idea to put their rabies vaccination tag on their collar as well.
• Get your pet a microchip ID before you leave. If they get lost and slip their collar, this is the only way to identify their owner.
• Schedule a checkup to get your pet up-to-date on their vaccinations. This is the best way to prevent contagious diseases. 
• If your pet has any serious health concerns, check with your vet to see how travel will affect them. Make sure to refill prescriptions before you go, and pack your pet’s medicine securely in your luggage.

Tips for Air Travel with Pets

• Check your airline’s pet policy well in advance of your flight. Make sure your pet’s carrier meets their requirements, and follow their rules carefully.
• Know where the airport’s pet relief stations are located. Most airports have designated areas both pre- and post-security.
• In case of flight delays, keep any medications your pet needs in your carry-on bag.

Tips for Car Travel with Pets

• Find a crate that fits in your car. Dogs and cats can’t wear seat belts, and if you have to stop suddenly or get into an accident, your pet could get thrown around—or out of—the vehicle. We know it’s tempting to let them sit on your lap, but your pet will be much safer inside a crate or carrier.
• Leash your pet before you let them out of the vehicle, especially at rest stops. The last thing you want is for them to go get lost because they went running after a squirrel.
• Playing calming music can help your pet relax. So can the sound of your voice—singing out loud to your favorite road trip playlist will also put your pet at ease.
• Never leave your pet alone in the car. Winter temperatures can be just as dangerous as summer. In fact, 31 states have laws against leaving your pet unattended in a vehicle. But if you’re traveling solo, this can be tricky. Stick to drive-thru restaurants or bring snacks with you, and keep bathroom breaks as short as possible.

Veterinary Care in Gilbert and Chandler

At Anasazi Animal Clinic, we want to help you keep your pets safe and healthy. If you need to schedule an appointment for vaccinations or you want to get your pet microchipped, please give us a call today. And have a safe and happy holiday season!

Photo by Kit (formerly ConvertKit) on Unsplash used with permission under the Creative Commons license for commercial use 12/13/24. 

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Halloween Treats You Can Make for Your Pet

Making these treats isn’t tricky at all, and your pets will love them. With just a few ingredients and a little time, you’ll have pet treats for days. And if you buy a few Halloween-themed cookie cutters, you can make your pet treats even more festive! 

Two Easy Recipes for Homemade Cat Treats

Carrot and Catnip Kitty Cat Treats

Do you have a cat that goes crazy for catnip? Surprise them with these nutritious carrot-catnip treats. With only five ingredients, they’re easy to make, and your kitty will love them.

Hairball Control Cat Treats

Does your cat cough up a lot of hairballs? This recipe includes ingredients like pumpkin and ground flaxseed to help ease hair through the digestive system.

Two Easy Recipes for Homemade Dog Treats

Pumpkin Oat Dog Treats

Are these treats the doggy version of a pumpkin spice latte? They might be! With only three ingredients, these seasonally-appropriate cookies are super easy to make. 

Peanut Butter Banana Dog Treats

Here’s another easy recipe with only three ingredients: fresh ground peanut butter, bananas, and oatmeal. If your dog is crazy about peanut butter, they’ll love these treats. 

Halloween Safety Tips for Pets

We can’t let you go without our annual reminder that pet safety is even more important at Halloween. Spooky season is a lot of fun, but pets don’t appreciate the “tricks” as much as they do the treats. Follow these tips to keep your pets safe this Halloween.

• Keep candy out of reach of pets, especially chocolate. You don’t have to worry as much about this with cats, but as you know, dogs will eat anything. Keep a close eye on your dog when you’re out for walks—they’ve been known to swallow discarded candy wrappers, which can be very dangerous.
• Don’t make your pet wear a costume or go trick-or-treating if they don’t want to. If they resist getting dressed up, or seem scared by all the strangers in costume, please respect their feelings. Frightened pets can bolt and get lost or hurt, and Halloween is a dangerous night for pets to be on their own outside.
• Avoid costumes with small pieces or dangling threads that could be swallowed by pets if they fall off. Foreign objects can cause life-threatening intestinal blockage. And avoid dangerous accessories like glow sticks. The liquid inside them is poisonous to pets, so if you’re trick-or-treating after dark, use flashlights or headlamps instead. 

Happy Halloween to Our Neighbors in Gilbert and Chandler!

The team at Anasazi Animal Clinic is dedicated to helping you keep your pets happy and healthy. If your pet ever needs care, we’re here for you. We also love seeings cute pets in cute costumes! If your dog or cat lets you dress them up this year, don’t forget to show us the pictures next time you visit. Give us a call at 480-497-0505 or send us a message to schedule an exam. 

Photo by Adam Gonzales on Unsplash used with permission under the Creative Commons license for commercial use 9/5/24.

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As long as they don’t have food allergies, there are some favorite Thanksgiving foods that dogs can eat in small amounts. However, many human foods can cause severe health issues for dogs, so it’s important to know which foods can be shared and which to avoid. Follow this guide, and you may prevent a trip to the vet over the holidays. 

Four Healthy Thanksgiving Foods Dogs Can Safely Eat

1: Turkey Meat

Dogs can eat a couple of bites of turkey as long as it is cooked and unseasoned. Any added fatty ingredients like butter and gravy can cause pancreatitis and other complications. It’s crucial that you never give your dog turkey bones to chew on, because the sharp pieces can damage their digestive system.  

2: Sweet Potatoes

A small portion of plain, baked sweet potato is an excellent addition to your dog’s diet. Sweet potatoes are rich in fiber, which helps your dog’s digestive system run smoothly. They’re also full of other healthy nutrients, like calcium, potassium, iron, and several vitamins. But, like turkey, sweet potatoes are only safe for dogs to eat when they’re unseasoned. If you added butter, sugar, or cinnamon to yours, keep them away from your pet. 

3: Pumpkin

Another nutrient-packed fall favorite that’s safe for dogs to have on Thanksgiving is pumpkin. A couple tablespoons of plain, canned pumpkin can help improve your dog’s digestive system and also give them healthy skin and fur. 

However, pumpkin pie is a big no-no for pets. Sugary desserts like pumpkin pie (including pumpkin pie filling) can cause digestive problems. Dogs can eat a little bit of canned pumpkin as long as it isn’t a pre-spiced pie filling.  

4: Apples

Dogs can also enjoy small portions of chopped, fresh apples. The vitamins and fiber in apples make them a healthy fruit for dogs. Just make sure to cut carefully around the core to avoid letting them eat any seeds, which can be toxic. As with all other human foods, the apples you give your dogs should be free of any toppings. 

Thanksgiving Safety Tips for Dogs

Avoid Toxic Foods

Dogs are notorious for sneaking bites of human food. Make sure your dog stays safe over the holidays by keeping them out of the kitchen while you’re cooking and away from the food table. While some foods may only cause an upset stomach, others are highly toxic, and can have fatal complications. 

If your dog eats any of the following toxic foods or ingredients, visit your emergency vet right away:

• Turkey bones
• Grapes and raisins
• Chocolate
• Alcohol
• Macadamia nuts
• Bread dough
• Nutmeg
• Butter
• Garlic
• Onions
• Stuffing (typically contains garlic and/or onions)
• Xylitol (an ingredient typically found in sugar-free products)

Be Careful with Decorations

Some seasonal decorations can also be harmful to your pets. For instance, petunias, sunflowers, poinsettias, and many other plants are toxic to dogs, so keep them out of reach. You should also avoid leaving lighted candles anywhere your dog may be able to knock them over, touch them with their tail when walking by, or otherwise bump into them. 

Keep Them Comfortable

Not all dogs are a fan of visitors or having company over. Keep shy dogs locked up in a crate (if they are crate trained) or in a room with a comfortable place to sleep and their favorite toy. Or you can consider boarding your dog during the festivities. If your dog is a party animal, keep an eye on the exits when people come and go, to ensure your dog doesn’t dash out and get lost. 

Emergency Vet Clinic in Gilbert, Arizona

If your dog eats something they’re not supposed to, it’s important to act quickly. Anasazi Animal Clinic provides emergency veterinary services for pets in and around Gilbert. We’ll examine your dog and provide urgent care so they can recover as quickly as possible. 

We want you and your pets to have a safe and happy Thanksgiving. If you’d like to schedule a wellness exam, just give us a call at 480-497-0505 today. 

Images used under creative commons license – commercial use (11/2/2022). Photo by Oliver on Unsplash

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Fireworks bring on severe anxiety in many dogs with their loud bangs, bright flashes, and strong smells. Luckily, the team at Anasazi Animal Clinic is here to teach you about the signs of anxiety in dogs and how to soothe your pooch. Here’s some advice on celebrating a happy Fourth of July with your furry friends.

Signs That Your Dog Is Scared of Fireworks

Your dog can’t always tell you when they’re afraid, and sometimes people mistake their pet’s anxiety symptoms for bad behavior. If your pup is showing any of these symptoms during a fireworks celebration, they are most likely anxious, not disobedient.

• Shaking
• Hiding
• Whining
• Pacing
• Panting
• Destructive behavior
• Accidents
• Excessive barking

Concerned dog parents often try to medicate their pets to calm them down, but there are better ways to ease your dog’s fireworks anxiety during the fourth of July.

Six Tips to Help Your Dog with Fireworks Anxiety

1. Practice Sound Training

If this is your puppy’s first Fourth of July, they may be afraid of fireworks because the noise is unfamiliar. Try playing fireworks sounds for your dog a few weeks in advance so they get used to hearing the noise. You can even pair the noises with their favorite treat.

2. Go for an Early Walk

Getting out for a walk earlier in the day makes it less likely that you and your dog will encounter fireworks while you’re out of the house. Plus, a tired pup is less likely to react to late-night fireworks, so a long day of play and exercise may help them sleep through the night. Early potty breaks also decrease the likelihood that your dog will have an accident if they get scared.

3. Use an Anxiety Vest

An anxiety vest swaddles your dog while applying gentle pressure on their torso, and makes them feel safe and secure. Make sure you get your dog accustomed to their vest before July 4th, so they are comfortable in it and feel safe when the fireworks begin.

4. Create a Safe Space

Naturally, dogs are den animals. Creating a quiet, comfy cave for them away from the chaos can help them feel safe. Put their bed or crate in a room or closet away from the action and play white noise or calming music to block out the sound of fireworks.

5. Be There for Your Dog

You are your dog’s source of security. Petting them and speaking in soft, calm tones will help reassure them that they are safe. Play together with some of your dog’s favorite toys, or fill a busy toy with treats to keep them occupied.

6. Talk to Your Vet

Fireworks anxiety is common in dogs, but if your pet’s fear might put you or your pet in danger, it is important to talk to a professional. A veterinarian can teach you more about what you can do to keep your pet and yourself safe during storms, fireworks, and other events that can trigger noise aversion.

Fourth of July Pet Safety

The July 4th weekend is the most common time of the year for pets to go missing. With lots of people coming in and out of the house for barbecues, combined with the loud, panic-inducing noise of fireworks, many pets run away.

One precaution you can take to prevent losing your pet is microchipping. The information stored in the microchip can help anyone who finds your dog get in touch with you, even if your dog loses their collar and ID tags.

The best way to keep your pets safe during the festivities is to make sure you know where they are at all times. Keep them contained in a separate part of the house, or leash them where you can keep an eye on them. 

If your dog does get lost, it’s important to act quickly. Bring your dog’s favorite toy and some treats along with you when you look for them, as well as an extra collar and leash. After canvassing your neighborhood, call local shelters and check social media sites like Nextdoor or Pawboost for “found pet” notices.

Veterinary Care in Gilbert

It is not uncommon for dogs and other pets to be frightened by the light, noise, and smell of fireworks. However, consistent behavioral changes after loud sounds could mean that your dog suffers from noise aversion, a treatable condition that affects nearly 67% of dogs in the United States. 

For more advice on how to help your dog with fireworks anxiety, or to learn more about noise aversion, contact our compassionate team at Anasazi Animal Clinic. Call 480-497-0505 or send us a message so you and your pet can enjoy the Fourth of July together!

Photo by Camylla Battani on Unsplash

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There is something elegant and mysterious about black cats. Their dark, sleek black coats hide them in the shadows so it’s almost as if they appear next to you like magic. And their black fur makes their eyes brighter and their little white teeth shinier. They’re just amazing to behold!

We hope our Gilbert and Chandler clients join us this year in celebrating National Black Cat Day on October 27th. For today’s post, we’re taking a look at National Black Cat Day history, and sharing some interesting facts about black cats you might not know. 

National Black Cat Day History

Cat Protection, a cat welfare charity based in the United Kingdom, started National Black Cat Day in 2011. The organization noticed that black cats were not being adopted as quickly or frequently as cats of other colors. Research shows that black cats are 50 percent less likely to be adopted than tabby cats and about 75 percent less likely to be adopted than white cats. 

In an effort to change those statistics, Cat Protection launched National Black Cat Day to celebrate the positive attributes of black cats, because they deserve love and affection just as much as any other cats. Since then, the power of social media has helped the campaign flourish, with thousands posting pictures of their favorite house panther with #BlackCatDay to show their support. 

Black Cat Facts

Fact 1: Black Cats Are Not Bad Luck

For centuries, people considered black cats to be bad luck or evil. A black cat crossing a person’s path foretold bad fortune coming their way. This is one of the reasons why black cats became associated with witchcraft and Halloween. 

However, many cultures view black cats as good luck. Citizens of Japan, France, and Scotland view black cats as forebearers of prosperity and good fortune, while British sailors believed that black cats would help ensure a safe voyage at sea. For the ancient Egyptians, black cats represented the goddess Bastet, half cat and half woman. 

Fact 2: There Are 22 Breeds of Black Cats

The Cat Fanciers’ Association recognizes an amazing 22 breeds of black cats. The most recognizable of these breeds is the Bombay, which truly does look like a miniature panther! Cats with completely black coats can also be found in breeds like Scottish Fold, Maine Coon, Persian, and even Sphynx, who are hairless but have black skin. 

Fact 3: Black Cats Have Advanced Immunity

Scientists discovered that the gene that causes a cat’s fur to turn black could also have an impact on its immunities. Research says black cats have stronger immune systems than cats of other colors, including increased resistance to feline immunodeficiency disorder (FIV). Researchers also believe that further mapping of a black cat’s genes could contribute to a cure for HIV in humans.

Hometown Care for All Cats in Gilbert and Chandler 

While black cats are certainly special and deserve their own holiday, here at Anasazi Animal Clinic we love to take care of all cats, regardless of their color or breed. If your cat is overdue for an annual exam, make an appointment today. 

Image by Marcela Lukášíková from Pixabay 

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Keep Your Pets Calm

Answering the door to find candy-hungry trick-or-treaters is part of the fun of Halloween, but the constant sound of the doorbell or knocking on the door can be stressful for pets. Along with this, masks, costumes, and children yelling for candy can feel like a threat to some pets. Each time the door is opened to trick-or-treaters, your pet has a chance to escape. Consider keeping your furry pals in a comfortable and secure room of the house with their food, water, toys, and bed. If your pet has not been microchipped, make sure to give us a call. Microchipping, combined with keeping a collar and up-to-date ID tag on your pet, always provides the best bet that you and your pet will be reunited if she does run out the door.

Safe Costumes Are Fun Costumes

If your pet enjoys wearing costumes, it can be fun to include them in the festivities! Before celebrating, make sure your pet’s costume is safe. It is important to look for costumes without string, buttons, or other details that your pet can swallow. It is also important to make sure the costume allows your pet to see clearly, move freely, breathe well, and vocalize needs. Allow your pet to wear the costume several times, well before the festivities begin, so she can become comfortable with wearing it. This includes making sure they are not overheating especially if you are going to be at a daytime event.Pets do not sweat like us so it is harder for them to cool off when overheating. If your pet doesn’t want to wear the costume, we would recommend finding other ways to involve your pet in the festivities, like replacing her collar with a Halloween-themed collar for the season!

Stash Your Sweets

It’s widely known that chocolate is toxic to cats and dogs, but did you know gum and foods containing the sweetener xylitol are also hazardous for your pets? Make sure to keep your candy stashed in a high cabinet, preferably with a child lock. Make sure your candy bowl for trick-or-treaters is placed where your pets cannot access it, and keep an eye on your children. Kids often want to share their delicious treats with their furry friends. Make sure your jack-o-lanterns are also out of your pet’s reach. While pumpkin is good for animals in small doses, too much of it can severely disrupt their digestion. 

Signs of poisoning in your pets include seizures, vomiting, rapid heart rate and breathing, and diarrhea. Please contact us immediately if you witness signs of poisoning in your pet. We offer emergency services six days a week. If it is outside of our operating hours, take your pet to the closest emergency vet. 

Happy Halloween from Anasazi Animal Clinic

Our team at Anasazi Animal Clinic hopes that by following these simple tips for Halloween pet safety, you can enjoy a fun holiday in Gilbert with your furry friends.

Image by Elena Rogulina from Pixabay

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Foods Hazards

In general, you should avoid giving human food to your pets. But specifically, here are some foods that are particularly dangerous. Make sure your pet can’t reach any food that may contain these ingredients:

• Chocolate—It contains a toxic compound called theobromine. Even a small amount can cause vomiting and diarrhea in dogs.
• Grapes and raisins—These can cause kidney failure in dogs.
• Xylitol—is a toxic substance to cats and dogs. It is a sugar alternative that can be found in gum, toothpaste, peanut butter, and sugar-free products.
• Poultry skin/gravy, fat trimmings– The high fat content in these can cause pancreatitis in cats and dogs.
• Alcohol—Just one tablespoon can cause liver and brain damage in cats.
• Bones—Cats and dogs can choke on splintered bones and they can cause tears or get stuck in their GI tracts.
• Onions—Onions contain an ingredient called thiosulphate that is toxic to cats and dogs. The ingestion of onions causes a condition called hemolytic anemia.
• Yeast dough—Eating yeast dough can cause painful gas and dangerous bloating in cats and dogs.

Decoration Dangers

Decorations make the holidays more festive, but they can also pose dangers to our furry friends. Here are some things you may not have considered when it comes to decorating.

• Christmas trees—Consider securing the christmas tree by tying it to the ceiling or to a door frame, in order to prevent it from falling over on pets that may be tempted to climb it!
• Tree water additives and fertilizers—Can be poisonous to your pet. Do not add anything to the water in your Christmas tree if you have pets.
• Ornaments—Keep breakable and salt-dough ornaments out of the reach of pets.
• Tinsel—Kitties in particular love this sparkly decoration. But it can cause intestinal blockages if ingested by pets, resulting in costly surgery.
• Lights—Both cats and dogs may be tempted to chew electrical cords. Make sure to unplug them when you leave your pets unattended.

If your pet does get into something dangerous, be sure to bring them into Anasazi Animal Clinic right away. We offer urgent care and emergency services located in Gilbert, AZ. Remember to have fun this holiday season, while making sure your pets stay safe! And be sure to look for more tips on keeping pets healthy over the holidays in our next blog post!

Images used under creative commons license – commercial use (12/28/2018) Pixaby 

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