We hope that you had a happy Thanksgiving and we look
forward to sharing the Yuletide season with you and your pets. Please remember
to book an appointment as soon as possible; holiday slots are filling very
quickly.
If you haven’t a clue what gift to give to a child or
a friend, you could offer something for their pet. Whether for yourself or
someone else, don’t forget your entry for our Holiday Gift Basket Drawing (even
if you don’t win, take a look inside for great pet gift ideas!).
A recommended book as a stocking stuffer for older
children (and adults of any age) is Peaceful Kingdom: Random Acts Of Kindness, by Stephanie Laland.
This issue will concentrate on pet well being around
December festivities. Of course, diet and emotional comfort tips from our
Halloween and Thanksgiving issues apply to this season. And, since bringing in
the New Year can also bring noisemakers, fireworks and boisterous parties, pay
special attention to your pets’ comfort.
Animal shelters receive many rejected pets that were
given as
If a new pet is to be introduced into the family,
think about waiting until after the holiday rush to ensure a more relaxed
reception. This is especially true if there are other, already excited, pets. A
card announcing the new arrival could be placed under the tree for the
recipient. (Whether a new or an old family member, please never tie ribbons
around a pet’s neck.)
The following are safety guidelines around trees,
ornaments and plants:
* Cats are
curious and love to climb. Be sure your tree is securely anchored to the
ceiling, wall or weighted to the floor with a sturdy stand. A bowl with lemon
peels at the base may deter cats from the tree.
* Cover the water at
the base of the tree, but, just in case, don’t treat the water with any chemicals.
* Be sure not to string
the tree with popcorn, cranberries, or other edible treats and keep wrapped
food gifts well out of reach from your pets.
* Sweep up prickly pine
needles. (Also, if your pet is out in the ice or snow,
remember to clean his feet.)
* Tinsel can become
lodged in the intestines if ingested and Angel Hair is spun glass. Ouch! (Cats,
especially, are attracted to these shiny strands).
* Keep tree lights firmly
fastened so they don’t become toys.
* Pet-friendly
alternatives to breakable balls include pinecones, fabric or wood based
decorations, and non-toxic dried flowers and fruit.
* Secure decorations
with ribbons or yarn, rather than hooks. Remember to fasten securely, since
ribbons and rubber bands can cause problems if swallowed.
* To prevent chewing on
electrical cords, cover them with heavy plastic or PVC tubing from your
hardware store.
* Remember that some
Christmas plants and greenery can be harmful if ingested: Protect your pets
from Holly, Ivy, Amaryllis and Lilies (toxic for cats). Poinsettia, though not
as toxic as other plants, can cause tummy upsets. Mistletoe can cause a drop in
blood pressure.
* In general, know what items
your cat may rub up against because later she’ll be licking it from her fur. Be
especially careful with Potpourri liquids, their bottles and pots.
Even though you’ll probably be very busy with holiday
cooking, perhaps the children (with supervision, of course) will want to bake
some holiday goodies for your dog. Following is a simple and tasty recipe:
Preheat oven to 350F; Lightly
grease a cookie sheet
Ingredients: 1 beaten egg, 2-1/2 cups flour (all-purpose); ½ cup dry milk powder,
1-1/2 tablespoons brown sugar; 6 tablespoons Beef Broth Baby Food Meat.
Instructions: Combine all ingredients in a large bowl. Turn out and roll onto a
floured board and cut into various shapes with cookie cutters or a knife. Bake
in pre-heated oven 25-30 minutes. Let cool so that cookies will harden.
All of us at Fetherle Pet
Care and Canine Clippers School of Pet Grooming wish you and yours a very Happy
Holiday and New Year. We look forward to seeing you and your pets in 2008!
Written by Rebecca Nilson-Owens
FEATHERLE PET
703-430-0414; featherlepetcaresterling@verizon.net
703-221-3647; canineclipperschool@verizon.net