The holidays have officially arrived. To keep the season merry, bright and safe for the entire family — including Donner, Blitzen and all our four-legged friends — here are some timely tips:

Holiday Decorations

• Many holiday plants are poisonous. Holly, mistletoe, poinsettias, many forms of lilies…just to name a few. Ask your veterinarian if you have specific questions, but a good rule of thumb is keep pets away from all holiday plants or opt for imitation plants!

• Tree water often contains preservatives which are sugar-based and inviting to pets as well as other toxic chemicals that were used on the tree. Use a tree skirt as well as the barricade to prevent access to this water.

• Many trees have been pulled down in a pet’s attempt to eat the decorations made of popcorn, candy canes and gingerbread. This can damage the tree and decorations, as well as upset your pet’s stomach or cause injury.

• Make sure to keep your pet from eating the needles on the tree since they’re sharp and can irritate the mouth and digestive tract if eaten.

• Secure your tree to the wall or the ceiling. In the event your pet jumps on the tree or tries to pull something off, the tree will remain upright and not fall. Also, pets will often play with ornaments and, because glass breaks easily, cuts to the mouth, esophagus and paw pads could happen. If glass ornaments are a must, then place them high on the tree where your pet can’t reach.

• Some lights can overheat and burn pets. Other curious pets can pull the lights off the tree and become entangled in the wires. Chewing on wires can cause problems like burned mouths and electrocution. Make sure to place ALL wires out of reach. (more…)

Jack Frost has come knockin’….are you and your dog prepared? Read more here for tips on keeping your dog safe and healthy this winter season.

Avoid plumping up your dog and adding a layer of fat to keep him warm during the winter season. Instead, choose a well fitting coat, doggie booties and a cozy blanket for his dog bed. Learn how to protect your friend’s feet from the elements by proper cleaning and the use of Healing Salve. Our safety tips will insure that your friend is truly enjoying the winter wonderland around him!

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The clanging bells of Salvation Army charity workers are a familiar sound each holiday season. It’s important to remember that people aren’t the only ones in need this year, though, as pets are often the ones to suffer when their families go through tough economic times.

There are many animal organizations seeking to give our four-legged friends a happier holiday. The Washington Animal Rescue League, for instance, is currently running its Presents for Paws drive to help low-income families. Through December 23, they will be collecting donations of dry pet food, treats, pet toys and accessories. Gifts can be brought to the shelter or one of their many drop off locations in the DC area.

If you don’t live in the DC area, but would still like to make a donation, you can always check out some of the animal organizations online that Halo has recently supported, such as The Amanda Foundation and Green Chimneys. And don’t forget that the animals in your local shelters and rescues are always in need, and you can give a homeless pet a more special holiday by donating food or toys to an area organization.

As a volunteer for Maryland cat rescue Cool Cats, I can say first hand that the kitties certainly appreciate anything extra you have to give. If you’d like to help, head to AnimalShelter.org to find a needy shelter near you.

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Pets can suffer from high cholesterol just like people. Cholesterol and triglycerides are the fats (lipids) in the blood stream and elevations of these levels is called hyperlipidemia. Hyperlipidemia can cause severe heart-related and other problems in people and 500,000 Americans die from this condition each year.

Hyperlipidemia is most common in dogs and has been overlooked as a cause of dog health problems until fairly recently. Hyperlipidemia is a risk factor for pet obesity, gastrointestinal upset, vision problems and even more life threatening problems like canine pancreatitis and seizures.

Hyperlipidemia is easily diagnosed by basic blood work and can usually be effectively treated with a low fat diet and fatty acid pet supplements.

Click here to read more about identifying and managing hyperlipidemia in dogs.

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So, you’ve decided to take the leap into the wonderful world of dog ownership! Congratulations, you have many fun days ahead!

Responsible dog ownership involves more than food, water and walks for Fido, however. There are many important things that need to be done before you even bring the new pooch home. For instance:

• Purchasing necessary items, such as food, treats, bedding, crates, and grooming tools
• Dog proofing your home
• Deciding who in your family will feed, walk, groom and pick up after the dog
• Finding a veterinarian who agrees with your natural approach to caring for your dog

To read more about getting your home ready for a new dog, as well as how to make his or her transition as smooth as possible, please continue reading here. Have fun with your new pup!

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