Hanukkah is a wonderful time to celebrate with family, friends, and animal companions, but with eight nights of festivities, it’s important to take precautions to keep pets safe.
Keep menorahs and all lit candles out of reach to prevent burns or accidents—LED candles are a safe alternative.
Watch out for gelt (chocolate coins) — chocolate is toxic to pets, and the foil wrappers can cause choking or obstructions.
Fried latkes might be delicious for us, but they’re high in fat and often contain onion, which is toxic to pets.
Spinning dreidels may look like pet toys, but they pose a serious choking hazard if swallowed. For pet-safe options, check out AMC’s holiday gift guide.
If you’ve recently become a dog owner, you’re probably excited to take your dog to the local dog park. But before you go, review this information to make sure you’re both prepared to have a fun and safe time at the dog park. By following these tips, you’ll be sure to win some canine and human friends!
Did you know that medications are among the leading causes of poisoning in pets each year? Whether it’s prescription drugs, over-the-counter pills, or even supplements, the way we store these items can make a huge difference in keeping our pets safe. Just like curious toddlers, our pets can get into places we’d never expect, so make sure all medications are securely stored in a locked cabinet. Remember, what’s safe for humans can be harmful to pets, so keep all medications clearly labeled and separate. If you suspect your pet has ingested any medication, seek veterinary care immediately.
Senior pets, just like their human counterparts, can experience both physical and cognitive decline as they age. A disorder similar to Alzheimer’s disease in humans, Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome (CDS) is a degenerative disease diagnosed in some dogs and cats. CDS causes a decline in brain function in aging pets, resulting in behavioral changes. This decline is not the result of normal aging – instead, pets with CDS have been shown to accumulate beta-amyloid plaques in the brain, which block normal communication between neurons (brain cells). This leads to various changes in behavior such as disorientation, changes in sleep patterns, memory loss, personality changes, and loss of housetraining. While there is no cure for CDS, early intervention can slow the progress of this disease and improve your pet’s quality of life throughout their senior years.
When the temperature drops, our pets rely on us more than ever to help them navigate the challenges of winter. Here are some tips to ensure your pets stay warm, healthy, and happy during the cold months:
