Friday, December 12, 2008

Christmas with the Pets

My husband, two kids and I spent the other night picking out the perfect Christmas tree. It was serious business looking at each and every tree - twice - and to finally come to a consensus on the perfect tree to adorn with sparkling lights and sentimental ornaments. As we walked toward the Christmas tree lot we passed under a canopy filled with the most beautiful poinsettias I had ever seen. The lovely, velvety red flowers add so nicely to the season's festive feel.

But as much as I appreciate poinsettias - I never buy the plant because two of our four dogs, Dyna and Mac, are super extraordinary canine plant eaters. And even though the flowers and leaves are bitter and should be distasteful to animals and small kids alike, I cannot be certain that my two cattle dogs won't graze away anyhow! The plant is not fatally poisonous, but chewing on the plant will cause tummy upset. Vomiting and diarrhea could lead to a mess in the house and possibly dehydration. So enjoy the plant for the holiday, but if you have plant loving canines like I do or plant loving felines, then avoid the tummy upset by appreciating the poinsettia somewhere other than your house!

Have a happy and safe holiday - Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukah, Assalamu Alaikum.

Kindest wishes,
Dr. Jacquie

1 comment:

Jack Smith said...

Thank you to both of you for helping out at the event. It was great talking to you about your practice and getting to know you. You both were a really big help. We had some foster dogs that were happy to be there and ready to party and some fearful dogs that weren't too sure about it.Vet Clinic