With the holidays right around the corner, it is a good time to talk about the insanity of it all with regards to our four-legged family members. The holidays usually bring more company into your home, so it is wise to keep tabs on your pets so they don't get too stressed or, worse, get out of the house. The winter holiday season is second only to Fourth of July as far as pets getting lost.
When having guests over it is a good idea to tell them not to feed your pet. We all know how our pets have perfected that pathetic 'I'm starving, really I am!' look, but 10 people in the house all falling for that would not be good for your pet's belly. Aside from that, many people are unaware of what is toxic or even deadly to a pet. Onions, chocolate and alcoholic beverages are big no-nos.
When decorating for the holidays, keep your animals away from mistletoe, holly, and poinsettias, as they are poisonous to pets. It is also a good idea to be careful with electrical cords, ornaments, ribbons and spray-on snow. After all, curiosity killed the ... well you know what I mean.
If you and your pets want to hit the town this holiday season, here are some things to do:
Dec. 10: Gourmet Holiday Buffet, Famous Fido's/Ruff N. Stuff, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Meet and adopt some of the homeless dogs from Animal Care & Control while enjoying treats for both you and you dog. 5430 N. Clark, 773-506-9063
Dec. 14: Tree House Foundation's 7th Annual 'Lights of Love' Lighting Ceremony and Open House, 6 p.m.-9 p.m. Pay tribute to beloved companions past and present. Tribute lights cost just $10 and they make great gifts. Hot comfort food, beverages, holiday raffle, silent auction, bake and craft sale and more. 1212 W. Carmen, www.TreeHouseFoundation.org .
Dec. 18: Santa PAWS, Hotel Monaco, 7 p.m.-10 p.m. Specialty drinks, hors d'oeuvres, raffle, goody bags. Dogs welcome. $35 per person in advance, dogs free. 225 N. Wabash, 773-890-5116
Do you dress up your pets for the holidays? Surprise! We do!
Send me a picture of your pets in their holiday wear by Dec. 7th ( last year's pic will work ) and I will put them in an upcoming issue of We Heart Pets! Send to WCTPets@aol.com .
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Hello, my name is Jessika. I am a beautiful 8-year-old calico. I was abandoned and very angry when I arrived at Tree House four years ago and I have suffered from all kinds of stress-related ailments. My health has stabilized but I still need daily medication. I know I would feel much better in my own home where I could be your one and only diva.
Tree House Animal Foundation, 773-784-5488, ext. 221
Adoption Hours: Wednesday through Sunday Noon to 6 p.m.