Happy Holidays! We suspect that many dogs will be enjoying lots of new toys and extra treats over the next few weeks. Of course, many of our canine patients are large breeds. These guys have their own sets of rules! Here, an Anderson, IN vet discusses holiday care for big dogs.

Travel

Traveling with big dogs can be challenging. This will be much easier in a car than by plane. If you’re flying to your holiday destination, do lots of research on airline/hotel policies, and take every precaution possible. You may want to consider boarding Fido instead. If you’re driving, make sure to keep your pooch crated for travel, and stop every few hours to let him stretch his legs. It’s also important to confirm your pet’s reservations, and make sure your hosts are aware of his size.

Presents

Don’t forget to fill Fido’s stocking! An orthopedic bed would be a wonderful gift for your furry friend. These offer extra support, which will help your pooch sleep more comfortably. Your pup may also appreciate elevated bowls. Toys and treats also make great gifts. Just be sure to choose things that are made for big dogs.

Hazards

Keep your furry pal’s safety in mind as you decorate. Tinsel, ornament hooks, pine needles, electric lights, ribbons, and fragile ornaments are all dangerous to dogs. The tree water is another issue, as it may contain residue from chemicals or pesticides. You’ll also need to be careful with seasonal plants. Many holiday favorites, such as poinsettia, holly, ivy, and mistletoe, are toxic to Fido. Keep these things out of paws’ reach! Also, don’t let your pup eat anything that isn’t safe for him.

Guests

Many big dogs are gentle giants, who are quite calm and friendly. However, our canine pals can get anxious when there are a lot of visitors around. Children can be a concern here, as they may not understand the do’s and don’ts of being around dogs. Little kids can irritate Fido by taking his toys, making a lot of noise, roughhousing with him, or even pulling his tail. Pay close attention to guests’ interactions with your pooch. If your pet seems uneasy, put him in a quiet back room with comfy bedding, food, toys, and treats.

Please contact us, your Anderson, IN vet clinic, for your big dog’s veterinary care needs. We are here to help!