Holiday Feeding Tips for Your Dog: What to Watch Out for

The holiday season is full of joy, celebration, and—let’s be honest—food! While it’s tempting to share your delicious meals with your furry friends, there are several things to keep in mind to ensure your dog stays healthy and safe during this festive time. Here are some important tips on feeding your dog during the holidays and how Poopaw Solutions, your trusted poop scooping service, can help manage your dog’s needs!

1. Watch Out for Toxic Foods

During the holidays, many of the foods we enjoy can be harmful to our dogs. Keep an eye on what your dog has access to, as common holiday foods are often dangerous for pets. Some of the most dangerous foods include:

• Chocolate: A holiday favorite, but incredibly toxic to dogs. Even small amounts can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and even seizures.
• Grapes and Raisins: These can cause kidney failure in dogs and should always be kept out of reach.
• Onions, Garlic, and Chives: These common cooking ingredients can damage red blood cells in dogs and cause anemia.
• Xylitol: Found in sugar-free gum, baked goods, and some candies, xylitol can cause a dangerous drop in blood sugar and liver failure in dogs.

Always be mindful of where you’re storing holiday treats and make sure your dog doesn’t have access to these potentially harmful foods.

2. Don’t Overfeed Your Dog

The holiday season often involves large feasts, and it’s easy to feel like sharing some of your food with your dog is a treat. However, overfeeding your dog can lead to:

• Digestive issues: Fatty, rich foods like turkey skin, gravy, and stuffing can upset your dog’s stomach and cause diarrhea or vomiting.
• Pancreatitis: Rich, greasy foods can trigger pancreatitis, a painful and serious condition.
• Weight Gain: Extra treats and meals can lead to weight gain, which can affect your dog’s health in the long run.

Instead of overfeeding your dog, provide them with safe, specially designed dog treats, and try to maintain their regular diet. Remember, moderation is key!

3. Stick to Their Regular Diet

Consistency in your dog’s feeding routine is crucial during the holidays. Dogs thrive on routine, and sudden changes in their diet can lead to stomach upset, including diarrhea and vomiting. To keep your dog comfortable:

• Avoid introducing new foods or treats that may cause digestive issues.
• If you do want to add something festive, stick to treats designed for dogs, or offer small, safe portions of vegetables like carrots or sweet potatoes.

4. Keep Bones Away

Holiday meals often include delicious meats like turkey, ham, or roast beef, which can come with bones. While dogs may be eager for a tasty treat, bones—especially cooked ones—can be dangerous:

• Bone fragments can cause choking.
• They can splinter and damage your dog’s digestive tract.
• They can cause blockages or puncture the intestines.

Always dispose of bones properly and never give your dog any leftover bones, especially cooked ones.

5. Watch for Holiday Decorations

While not directly related to feeding, holiday decorations can pose a danger to pets. Dogs are naturally curious, and some holiday decorations may be hazardous:

• Christmas trees: Falling ornaments or tree water containing preservatives can be harmful to dogs if ingested.
• Tinsel, ribbons, and lights: These can be chewed or swallowed, leading to blockages or electrical hazards.

Ensure that your dog’s area is safe and free from tempting decorations that could cause harm.

6. How Poopaw Solutions Can Help

Amidst the busy holiday season, keeping your dog’s routine intact can be challenging, especially when it comes to potty time. The extra treats and food can sometimes lead to digestive issues, which might result in more frequent bathroom breaks. That’s where Poopaw Solutions comes in! As a professional poop scooping service, we can help manage the mess that comes with your dog’s holiday diet, ensuring that your yard remains clean and hygienic.

By hiring Poopaw Solutions, you can:

• Keep your yard clean: If your dog is eating more or differently during the holidays, there could be more waste to scoop. Let us handle it, so you don’t have to worry about the mess!
• Prevent health hazards: Regular scooping ensures that any bacteria or parasites in your dog’s waste are promptly removed, preventing contamination.
• Enjoy a stress-free holiday: Focus on enjoying the season with your family and pets without worrying about cleaning up after them.

7. Hydration Is Key

Lastly, don’t forget about hydration! While food is essential, water is just as important. Ensure that your dog has access to fresh water at all times, especially if they’re eating extra treats or experiencing any digestive upset.