Fido’s Holiday Wish List

Happy Holidays! It’s always great to relax with friends and family at this special time of year, and enjoy seasonal foods and festivities. Picking out gifts for people can also be fun (or at least rewarding).Don’t forget about Fido! In this article, a local Washington DC vet lists some things your dog wants for the holidays.

Toys are actually vital to your pet’s health and well-being. Playing will keep Fido fit. It also helps entertain him. Since boredom is a factor in many bad behaviors, like digging and chewing, this also is a great way to improve your dog’s petiquette. Just be sure to choose toys that are the right size for Fido. Your canine pal could hurt himself on toys that are too big or too small!

Our furry companions are very, very enthusiastic about food. Fido will love a special holiday meal! Plain, cooked, boneless meat, fish, or poultry is fine. You can also give your pooch shredded deli meat, a few cocktail wieners, a little bacon or sausage, or some store-bought treats.

Many of our canine buddies absolutely love going on adventures. Take Fido to a new doggy park, or explore a trail with him. Just check with your vet before taking your pet on a vigorous hike.

It’s important for your pup to have a comfortable place to sleep. (We know, some of our patients are allowed to sleep in their humans’ beds, but that’s another topic.) Orthopedic beds are great for older dogs and large breeds!

We know, we already listed treats. However, Fido will never get tired of his favorite snack. Just don’t give him too much: bacon really isn’t the healthiest thing for dogs to eat.

Although some dogs, like huskies, have thick fur that insulates them from bad weather, others need extra protection from the cold. If your pooch has a thin coat, get him a cozy jacket to wear on frigid days. Make sure it fits well, and isn’t tight, hot, itchy, or restricting.

Is your canine companion in his golden years? If so, Fido may be stiff and sore, especially if he has arthritis or hip dysplasia. Ask your vet about pain management options.

Happy Holidays! Please contact us, your Washington DC vet clinic, for all of your pup’s veterinary care needs. We’re here for you!