Easter Safety Tips

As we approach the Easter Holiday, it is important to remember that some of the holiday staples may pose a risk to our furry friends.

Chocolate - Chocolate and Easter go hand in hand, but chocolate contains theobromine and caffeine, which are both harmful to pets. Chocolate can cause vomiting, diarrhea, pancreatitis, tremors, seizures, and an increased heart rate. The darker the chocolate, the more harmful it is, but in the case of any type of chocolate ingestion, contact your local veterinarian, or the Animal Poison Control Center. 

Easter Basket Grass - Plastic, shiny, colorful decorative grass can be very tempting for dogs and cats to take a nibble. Since the plastic cannot be broken down by the body, it can cause an intestinal blockage if ingested. Instead of plastic grass, consider using tissue paper, or shredded crinkle paper to give your baskets some pizazz, without posing a risk to your pets.

Plants + Bulbs - Spring is a time to gift and plant flowers, but it is important to make sure that your pets are not doing more than just taking in the pleasant scents of the flowers. Many flowers and bulbs are potentially harmful for our cats and dogs. Here is a list of potentially harmful plants to keep away from your furry friends, and signs to watch for if they are ingested:

Easter feasts - Common Easter entrees such as turkey or ham are often high in salt, which can cause pancreatitis in both dogs and cats. Popular side dishes contain harmful ingredients such as onions and garlic. Instead of sharing from the table, consider cooking your pet their own Easter dinner of lean meat, such as boiled chicken, and vegetables such as peas and carrots. 

Create a safe space if you are hosting for the holiday - Many pets welcome guests during holiday seasons; others prefer to keep to themselves and the added noise/traffic in their home may be stressful. Provide more timid pets with an area that is off-limits to guests, and be sure to include some of their favorite toys, bedding, and treats to keep them comfortable. 
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Keep emergency contact handy - It is important to keep the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center number on hand (888-426-4435), in case of any accidental ingestions. Another important contact to keep nearby is that of a trusted friend or family member who can care for your pet if you're unable to do so yourself. This is especially crucial around holidays like Easter when travel plans may be disrupted unexpectedly. Make sure this person knows how to reach you as well as any specific instructions regarding your pet's diet or medication needs.