First, let me be very honest: I usually - often - almost always - gave Carmie table scraps back in the day. Not a lot, mind you. But, she would get pizza crusts, and at holiday time a cookie or two. Maybe even a leftover piece of turkey that one of the kids didn't finish. After a time, it began to show - she put on extra pounds that my vet told me would eventually negatively contribute to her overall health, as she aged.
I did follow his advice and forced myself not to indulge her as much, after that. But, I still gave her pizza crusts.
This year, as you celebrate both Thanksgiving and Christmas and all the holidays that come with the snow, keep in mind that your cat and your dog want to be included, but with some reservations - and while that includes not feeding them table scraps, it goes far beyond, also.
Tips to keep your pets safe this holiday season, from Dr. Larry:
1. Is your dog or cat wearing his collar and tag and is the info on the tag up to date? You'd be surprised how often this happens. It was almost a year after we moved to New Mexico before I discovered that Darcy's tag had old information.
2. If your pet is micro-chipped make sure the info in his database with the microchip manufacturer is up to date, too. According to these people the number one failure in reuniting lost pets with their owners is incorrect or outdated information in the database.
3. Make some rules and let guests know what's up. Where is the dog allowed to go? Can you just let him out the back door? Keep an eye on the dog or cat when you are coming and going and keep the windows closed. The dog really does not like to be ridden by small children, poked in the eye or tortured in other ways. Walk only on a leash etc. etc.
4. How is the cat with strangers? If you have a mellow kitty that's great, but some cats see the mother-in-law the same way you do: Evil intruder. Make sure the cat has a safe haven complete with water, food and litter box. If your cat is less than tolerant with kids make sure they know it's not a good idea to grab her by the tail.
5. The dog and cat have their own food . They won't feel left out if you don't give them giant hunks of turkey skin, turkey fat, dressing and gravy and most of all, hold the fruit cake. In fact, don't bring the fruit cake this year. Fruit cake is not for pet or human consumption and just looking at it makes most people uncomfortable. Not only will they not feel left out by staying with their usual diet, they won't bless you with vomit and diarrhea to add to the holiday festivities.
6. And finally, pay lots of attention to your pet. They need their cuddles and walks at this time of year, probably more so. And you'll need a dose of unconditional love, too.
