Animal Wellness Centers News – Pet Safety Holiday Tips
The holidays are a special time for families, and at Animal Wellness Centers we know pets are family. Here are some holiday tips on keeping your pets safe, happy and healthy during this joyous holiday season.
Tuck the Tinsel Away!
These sparkly decorations may glisten up your tree, but this instant play toy can cause life-threatening intestinal obstruction or intestinal bunching. Please keep the tinsel off the tree and make sure other ribbons and ornaments are out of your pet’s reach.
Have a No Holly, but Jolly Christmas
Holly, mistletoe and poinsettias are all toxic to animals. If ingested they can cause complications such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, gastrointestinal upset and cardiovascular problems. Keep or display them in a place where they can’t be reached.
Don’t Share the Holiday Feast
While it’s tempting to give holiday leftovers to our furry friends, holiday human food tends to be high in fat and can cause pancreatitis. Keep your pets away from the table, your food covered and secure the lids to your trashcans.
Stocking Stuffers
If you are stuffing your little loved one’s stockings with toys, make sure to give them an indestructible one. Other toys can easily be broken down by a few bites, so it’s important to invest in a good one. The popular Kong is a great, sturdy choice and you can fill it with healthy food or treats.
Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree
Strongly secure your Christmas tree to keep it from tipping over and find a way to cover up the tree water. Christmas tree stand water may contain bacteria or fertilizers that can cause vomiting and diarrhea.
…and if an accident does occur, our state-of-the-art Venice/Marina Veterinary Hospital is staffed and equipped to deal with all types of emergencies. Call us at 310-450-7387 (PETS).
You can also call the ASPCA Poison Control Hotline at 866-426-4435 or Homeagain (if your pet has a registered Homeagain microchip) at 888-466-3242 if you suspect your pet accidentally ingested anything toxic.
AWC’S Grooming Loyalty Program
Have you heard of our new Grooming Loyalty Program? AWC’s grooming is widely regarded as the safest and most stylish in Los Angeles. Have your pet groomed 5 times with AWC and the 6th one is free! Schedule your pet’s grooming appointment today and be sure to ask for one of our grooming loyalty cards!
Arthritis Alert
Limps and difficulty rising after rest are both signs of joint stiffness and pain, which can be made worse by cold weather. Keeping your pet at an ideal body weight and using a joint health supplement such as Dr. Annie’s Maggie Miracle Joint Chews can help alleviate some of the discomfort associated with arthritis. If you suspect your pet may be arthritic, schedule an appointment with an AWC Veterinarian to discuss other treatment options (including acupuncture) for your pet.
Holiday Services
Pet Boarding
Traveling for the holidays? Animal Wellness Centers accepts cats and dogs under 55 lbs for boarding. Let Animal Wellness Center’s caring staff take care of your cat or dog while you’re away. Call to make your pet’s boarding reservation today. Space is Limited!
Health Certificates
Taking your pet with you to your holiday vacation? All pets crossing state borders, with the exception of guide dogs, are required by the U.S. Department of Agriculture to have a rabies vaccination and a valid health certificate issued by a licensed Veterinarian. Animal Wellness Centers can help you will all of your pet health certification needs!
Last Minute Shopping
AWC is stocked with hundreds of products for the four-legged friends on your shopping list including Dr. Annie’s exclusive line of supplements and grooming products, collars, leashes, treats, and much more.