DEAR PAW’S CORNER: Please remind your readers, as the holiday season begins, to keep a close eye on their pets. Many of our favorite foods at Thanksgiving and Christmas contain ingredients that are poisonous to dogs and cats. Holiday gatherings with lots of family and friends can be really stressful for them, too. -- Larry in Secaucus, New Jersey
DEAR LARRY: You’re absolutely right, and thank you for sending this reminder along. Dogs and cats alike will be attracted to all of the delicious aromas coming from the kitchen this week. Turkey, gravy and lots of side dishes will smell irresistible.
But owners should know that it’s not just chocolate that is dangerous for pets to ingest. Onions, garlic, chives, avocados, grapes (and raisins) can all be deadly. Sugar substitutes, especially xylitol, are also very dangerous. Coffee and caffeinated drinks, like chocolate, contain a chemical that causes illness, seizures and even death. A complete list can be found here: www. aspca.org/pet-care/aspcapoison- control/people-foodsavoid- feeding-your-pets.