November 2008 Newsletter

This time of year is very busy and hectic. It is easy to forget that our furry companions also pick up on our stress as we worry about parties, gifts, finances and other such things that are amplified during the holiday season.

It is important to take the time to reassure them that they are loved and not the source of our stress. Doing this can be something as simple as a two minute scratch behind the ears, belly rub in a spare moment or talking to them while filling their food dish.

Above all else, it is important to take the time to safeguard pets against danger. Again, this can be accomplished as simply as following a few simple guidelines:

• With increased traffic in and out of your home, extra care should be given to making sure that all pets (especially dogs) are unable to get loose. In Denver, it is illegal for an owner to permit their dog to run at large.
• While Mistletoe is a holiday staple in most homes, it is poisonous to pets. When placing plants around the home, take care that they are not within the reach of pets may ingest them. Other poisonous plants include Dumb Cane, Gladiolas, Ferns, Lilies and Tulips.

• The holiday season is a time of sharing and generosity. It may be tempting to give your pet e “treat” in the form of human food. There are many foods that are poisonous to pets and that could harm or kill them. A few of these foods are alcohol, fruit pies, grapes, onions, raisins, chocolate, garlic, potato peelings, hops, Macadamia nuts and caffeine. Limiting pets to pet food is not being “mean” or “depriving” them. Limiting what your pet eats is a sign of loving responsible guardianship.

Check out our links section before you go as we have included a hyperlink to a National Animal Abuse Registry. The Animal Law Center is a strong supporter and advocate of Animal Abuse Registries in each state to help advance the protection of all animals.