Here’s how to keep your furry friends safe this holiday and winter season

PITTSBURGH — With the start of the holiday season and colder temperatures, it’s important to know how to keep your pet safe, especially as we prepare for our upcoming festivities.

Joe Allbaugh of Hounds Town USA in Pittsburgh shared some canine wellness tips for the cold and holiday season.

Keep your dog away from foods that could be harmful. Many dog owners know that chocolate is bad for their pups. But did you know it can actually cause severe symptoms like seizures, abnormal heart rhythms, and even death? Onions, grapes, raisins, nuts, and yeast dough are also items to never share with your dog.

Be aware of what plants can be toxic to dogs. Lilies, sago palms, tulips, pothos, aloe vera, areca palms, elephant ears, money plants and spider plants are all on the list of houseplants that can be toxic and fatal to pets. While decorating for the holidays, keep in mind poinsettia plants can cause mouth and esophagus irritation, and nausea and vomiting.

Keep your dog healthy during cold temperatures. The cold can actually make dogs behave differently and you may notice they are more active. This is because it’s more instinctual for them to be in cold weather. Even if the temperatures are too cold for prolonged outdoor time, make sure to keep your dog exercised and active during these months.

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