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Winter is here, and what better way to combat the cooler temperatures and chilly rain than with cozy sweaters, crackling fires, and couch cuddles with your furry pal. Since our four-legged companions aren’t able to bundle themselves up for the cold, they rely on their pet parents to provide protection from frigid winter temperatures. Our pets may have year-round fur coats, but they are still at risk of illness and injury from cold weather exposure. Ensure your pets are safe this winter with these six tips from our Bayside Animal Hospital team. 

#1: Take your pet for a winter wellness check

Welcoming a new four-legged pal into your family is exciting and at times challenging. A productive first year with a precious puppy is critical for ensuring a life of health and good behavior. Like a human child, puppies require lots of attention, care, monitoring, training and, most importantly, lots of patience and cuddles. Follow these guidelines from your Bayside Animal Hospital veterinary team to ensure a pawsitive first year with your new fluffy friend. 

Puppy meal time

’Tis the season for giving, special sweets, and twinkling tree lights. Holiday celebrations wouldn’t be the same without including our furry family members. However, holiday treats and festive decor can be hazardous to your pets and lead to upset stomachs and accidents. Avoid an unexpected trip to the animal emergency room by following these four holiday safety tips from your Bayside Animal Hospital veterinary team. 

#1: Keep pets calm and carry on

Unfortunately, pets can occasionally become ill, and sometimes die, from toxin exposure. While most intoxications are accidental, some cases result from inappropriate treatment by well-meaning owners who are unaware that dogs and cats may react differently to medications intended for human use. In rare instances, poisoning may be malicious. Often, owners know or suspect their pet has been exposed to a toxic substance; however, in instances where owners are unaware, a sudden onset of dramatic clinical signs in a previously healthy pet should cause concern.

Common pet poisons

Each year, the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (APCC) compiles a list of the most common toxins pets encounter. Knowing what substances pets frequently get into can help you keep your furry friend safe.