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5495 North Federal Blvd.
Denver, CO 80221
303.455.2131
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1075 Aviation Dr
Lake Havasu City, AZ 86403
928-505-2131
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Winter weather and holidays provide special concerns for the pet owner. Before these times are here you need to take
certain precautions to make sure your pets don't suffer.
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Housing
Pets should be kept indoors during the winter months. But if this is not possible, outdoor pets must be provided with
adequate shelter. To prevent moisture accumulation their homes should be elevated off the ground. All shelters must have some type of a
door to keep out the elements. Outdoor housing should be heated or at the least well insulated. Your pet will also need access to an
unfrozen source of water. There are a variety of commercial units available for this application. Pets that live outdoors during the
winter will also require additional calories to stay warm. In severely cold weather all pets should be brought indoors. Indoor pets should
have a bed raised slightly off the floor in a draft free, warm area.
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Cats Outdoors
Roaming, feral or house cats as well as other assorted types of wildlife may climb into your car's engine compartment
for warmth in the winter time. Initially, bang on the hood of your car as you walk by. Once inside, a quick blast of the horn should chase
off any animals that you don't want to hurt.
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Frostbite and snow removal salt
Snow and salt should be removed from your pets paws immediately. Frostbitten skin is red or gray and may slough. Apply
warm, moist towels to thaw out frostbitten areas slowly until the skin appears flushed. Contact your veterinarian as soon as possible for
further care. Snow removal products should be stored out of the reach of pets and small children as their toxicity varies considerably.
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Toxic plants and holiday/winter products
Plants and other items associated with the winter and holiday season can be toxic to your pets. What follows is a
general guide. Please consult your veterinarian, animal poison control, and the manufacturer for specifics. Remember, the earlier you
seek treatment, the better for your pet!
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Low toxicity
Poinsettia leaves/stems; balsam/pine/cedar/fir; angel hair (spun glass); Christmas tree preservatives; snow sprays/snow
flock; tree ornaments; super glue; styrofoam; icicles (tinsel); and crayons/paints.
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Moderate toxicity
Fireplace colors/salts; plastic model cement Moderate to high toxicity holly berries and leaves; bubbling lights
(methylene chloride); snow scenes (may contain salmonella); aftershaves/perfumes/alcoholic beverages; and chocolate (dark is more toxic
than milk).
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High toxicity
Mistletoe (especially berries); expoxy adhesives; and antifreeze. Please note that some items have special problems. For
example, whereas angel hair is usually considered to be of low toxicity, it can irritate eyes, skin, and the gastrointestinal tract; the
content of Christmas tree preservatives varies and often effects depend upon the amount ingested; styrofoam, small parts from Christmas
tree ornaments and toys, as well as tinsel, can cause mechanical obstructions in the gastrointestinal tract; snow flock can cause problems
if sprayed into the mouth and inhaled; and chocolate, of any type, should never be given to a pet. Antifreeze deserves special mention
because even a very small amount can be rapidly fatal to pets.
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Holiday Concerns
Mistletoe (especially berries); expoxy adhesives; and antifreeze. Please note that some items have special problems. For
example, whereas angel hair is usually considered to be of low toxicity, it can irritate eyes, skin, and the gastrointestinal tract; the
content of Christmas tree preservatives varies and often effects depend upon the amount ingested; styrofoam, small parts from Christmas
tree ornaments and toys, as well as tinsel, can cause mechanical obstructions in the gastrointestinal tract; snow flock can cause problems
if sprayed into the mouth and inhaled; and chocolate, of any type, should never be given to a pet. Antifreeze deserves special mention
because even a very small amount can be rapidly fatal to pets.
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