Animal Emergency Care of Braselton

Christmas brings food, decorations, travel, guests — and for pets, more dangers than almost any other time of year. With new scents, tempting treats, flashing lights, and unfamiliar visitors, even the calmest pets may find themselves in risky situations. Emergencies can happen quickly, and preparation is the key to responding effectively and protecting your companion. Having a plan ensures you’re ready to act fast, even during holiday chaos. From knowing common hazards to assembling a pet first-aid kit, the right steps today could prevent tragedy tomorrow. 1. Common Christmas emergencies to anticipate Many holiday emergencies result from just a few causes. Understanding them helps you prevent trouble before it starts. - Food toxicity — chocolate, onions, raisins, xylitol in sugar-free sweets - Foreign object ingestion — tinsel, ribbons, ornament hooks, bones - Electrical injuries — chewed light cords, broken bulbs - Stress-related incidents — bites, escape attempts, anxiety vomitin...

The holiday season brings festive food, sparkling décor, and joyful gatherings — but it also introduces a range of poisonous hazards for pets. Curious animals often explore new scents and snacks without understanding the danger. With chocolate desserts, toxic plants, and ornament fragments scattered throughout the home, accidental ingestion becomes more common this time of year. Preventing poisoning is far safer than treating it. By recognizing risks early and taking simple precautions, pet owners can protect their companions and enjoy the holidays with peace of mind. 1. Know which holiday foods are toxic Many seasonal treats are dangerous for pets. Chocolate, raisins, grapes, macadamia nuts, onions, garlic, and foods containing xylitol (commonly found in sugar-free candy and baked goods) can cause severe illness. Alcohol, coffee, fatty meats, and leftover bones are equally harmful. Even small amounts can trigger vomiting, tremors, seizures, or organ failure. Tip: Keep treats in seale...

The holiday season is full of busy schedules, travel, decorations, and unfamiliar foods — all of which can pose unexpected risks to pets. From swallowing ornaments to eating festive treats, many animals experience medical emergencies during this time of year. With vet clinics booked, reduced holiday hours, and delayed response times, knowing what to do in an emergency can make a critical difference. Prepared pet owners navigate the season confidently. The key is understanding risks, knowing when to seek help, and taking fast action when something goes wrong. Below are essential steps for managing holiday pet emergencies responsibly and safely. 1. Identify common holiday hazards early Many festive traditions bring hidden dangers. Chocolate, alcohol, grapes, xylitol-sweetened desserts, electrical cords, tinsel, and holiday plants like poinsettias and lilies can all make pets sick. Even well-meaning guests offering table scraps can introduce harmful foods. Keeping high-risk items out of r...

As temperatures drop and winter sets in, it’s important to remember that our furry companions feel the chill too. Cold weather can be tough on pets—especially those who spend time outdoors or have short fur. Preparing your pet for winter is about more than just comfort; it’s about protecting them from cold-related health risks like frostbite, dry skin, and hypothermia. Here’s how to keep your pets safe, warm, and happy all season long. 1. Limit Outdoor Time Even if your pet loves the snow, prolonged exposure to freezing temperatures can be dangerous. Short walks are fine, but avoid leaving pets outside for long periods—especially in windy or icy conditions. Tips: - Keep walks brief and monitor your pet for signs of shivering. - Choose sunny times of day for outdoor activity. - Wipe paws after walks to remove ice, salt, and chemicals. If your pet must be outside, provide a dry, insulated shelter away from the wind, and ensure they have unfrozen water available. 2. Dress for Warmth Small...