We are happy to announce that starting January 6, 2012 our kennel facility will be getting a makeover!

During the construction (only) ...

• Boarding will only be available to cats and small dogs (space is limited)
• Grooming will also be limited to cats and small dogs

If you have any questions feel free to contact us:
Phone: 989-856-3525
Email:

'Tis The Season'

Download a printable version of this article.

Here are some things to watch out for to keep your pet safe this holiday season.

Plants
Plants are a wonderful way of making your house very festive, but keep in mind that some of those plants are not safe for your furry family members. Mistletoe may cause a kiss between loved ones, however, if ingested by a pet it can cause vomiting, diarrhea, nausea, shock, seizures, possibly muscle tremors, and depending on the amount ingested death could occur. Holly berries can cause severe gastrointestinal signs and depression of the nervous system. Ingested Lilies can be extremely dangerous for cats. Certain types of lilies can cause kidney failure even if eaten in small amounts.

Decorations
Tinsel and Ribbon are sparkly, shiny, bright, and an attractant for small pets. Cats especially enjoy these items. A lot of tinsel is made of plastic and when ingested it stretches throughout the intestines and can rupture them or cause a blockage. If you suspect your pet has eaten any, contact your local veterinarian. Ornaments hanging from the trees tend to attract a lot of unwanted attention. Glass ornaments that have broken or have sharp edges may cut the pet or if ingested, can damage the gastrointestinal tract. Christmas Lights and electric cords if chewed can electrocute your pet.

Food
During the holiday season many family members gather to have large meals. It may be tempting to share a little with your pet, but it would be better for them if you didn't. Foods that are excessively rich or fatty can trigger pancreatitis. Bone fragments can damage the digestive tract or get caught over the jaw and require veterinary assistance for removal.  Chocolate can increase the heart rate or give them tremors. Grapes and raisins have been shown to cause kidney failure in dogs when eaten in quantity. Other potentially dangerous food items to keep away from your pets are: moldy or spoiled foods, coffee grounds, onions, alcoholic beverages, and macadamia nuts.

Company
Unfamiliar guests can sometimes make pets very nervous. Keep this in mind when you have gatherings at your house. If your pet does not do well with large crowds or loud noises, set aside a safe and quiet haven for it to retreat to if it needs it.

Salt
During the winter months we experience a lot of snow and ice. With ice we tend to sprinkle salt on the sidewalks and steps to prevent people from slipping but, did you know that many sidewalk salts are harmful to your pets, and say so right on the warning label. There are, however, some pet safe brands. Make sure you read the labels to keep your pet safe and any other pet that may visit your house.   

Happy Holidays
From The
Doctors and Staff
Caseville Small Animal Clinic