Precautions to prevent pets from becoming party poopers

As you prepare for the last bash of the decade, don’t forget the festivities might not be as much fun for your four-legged friends. In fact, New Year’s Eve is the most dangerous night of the year for pets.

For starters, the earth-rattling fireworks, buzzing party horns and the unpredictable popping champagne corks terrorize dogs and cats. With their homes under siege in a barrage of unfamiliar, dramatic sights, smells and sounds, they flee houses, climb trees and dig out of yards.

Pets may be less likely to bolt if they have a quiet place to retreat. However, since loud noises and open doors provide both the motive and opportunity to escape, it is especially important pets suit up for any soiree with an ID tag.

In addition, veterinarians at the LSU teaching hospital and clinics report an increase in a variety of digestive diseases during the holidays.

Any small decoration or toy poses a gastric hazard. If a child can choke on small toys or parts, so can the family pet. When a pet gets hold of toy batteries, the danger only intensifies from the energizer’s acid content. The additional electrical cords that holiday decor usually demands increase the risk of electric shock. Singed paws and whiskers often result from unattended candles or sparklers.

Tinsel and ribbons are particularly enticing to cats. Unfortunately, in the digestive tract, the thin strands can twist into a rope and cause severe intestinal blockages that sometimes require surgery. Likewise, candy wrappers, aluminum foil or plastic wrap can lead to serious breathing and bowel obstructions.

A pet merrily munching on poinsettias, mistletoe, holly and other ornamental live or synthetic plants may quickly suffer the effects of poisoning.

Even table food can cause gastroenteritis (an inflammation of the stomach and intestine) or pancreatitis. Both diseases can cause severe vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain and listlessness. Poultry or pork bones can get caught in the esophagus, stomach or intestine and lead to severe digestive problems. Grapes, raisins, onions, alcohol and chocolate are toxic and can cause acute kidney failure, anemia or seizures or fatal diseases.

As usual, prevention and vigilance is the best strategy. However, if you suspect a pet has swallowed something harmful or become injured in the midst of the revelry, contact a veterinarian immediately.

Since most offices close for the holiday, keep the closest animal emergency clinic’s telephone number nearby. The Baton Rouge Pet Emergency Hospital, at 1514 Cottondale Drive (925-5566), will remain open 24 hours during the holiday.

Click here for this week’s Creature Feature.

Click here for this week’s City Lynx.