Easter Awareness Post

Easter invites many threats into the lives of our pets. The most notable one is poison, as many of the colorful items that we associate with the holiday are poisonous to our pets. However, there are precautions you can take to keep your pet safe during the holiday and to safely include them in the celebrations.

Be aware of poisons

The first step that you can take to protect your pets is to be aware of the different types of poisonous Easter items.

1. Xylitol

Xylitol is a type of artificial sweetener that is commonly found in candy, chocolate, and baked goods. Even in small doses, Xylotial is lethal to dogs. It can cause low blood sugar, liver failure, seizures and may even result in death. Symptoms of Xylitol poisoning include tremors, vomiting, weakness, lethargy, lack of coordination and may even cause a coma.

2. Chocolate

Chocolate is well known as a poison for dogs. It is very popular around Easter and may be hidden within a dog’s reach. Be very careful when walking your dog and watch where and what he is sniffing. Chocolate poison in dogs reaches it’s peak around Easter. The symptoms are similar to Xylitol poisoning and may additionally include: increased agitation, diarrhea, extreme thirst and an elevated heart rate.

3. Easter Grass

Easter Grass is what is commonly placed on the bottom of Easter baskets. Cats are often curious about the colored grass and may attempt to ingest it. Therefor, it is very important to avoid purchasing this grass, or to keep it well away from your cats. If ingested, it may cause gastrointestinal obstruction.

4. Lilies

Lilies are a spring flower, commonly used in bouquets. While they are not extremely toxic for dogs, they do pose a great threat to your feline’s health. If ingested, the pollen from lilies can result in rapid kidney failure. One of the most common symptoms associated with lily-poisoning is instant vomiting. Cats may also display signs of depression, dehydration and lack of appetite. It is very important, if you have cats, to not bring lilies into your home.

5. Daffodils

Daffodils are also commonly found in Easter bouquets. Ingestion of Daffodils in any form (bulb, plant or flower) can cause severe and immediate reactions. These include vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain and respiratory depression.

If you have any suspicions that your pet has consumed a toxin, it is very important that you call your veterinarian immediately and the 24 hour Emergency Animal Poison Control Center at 1-888-426-4435 (Montreal).

Rabbit Adoption

During Easter holidays, a large number of rabbits are adopted out to new families. However, many of these rabbits are abandoned shortly after. It is important to note that rabbits are not low maintenance pets. Adopting a rabbit should be a family decision akin to adopting a cat or a dog.

You must ensure that you are financially ready to adopt a rabbit and upkeep its environment monthly. This includes housing, food, litter and veterinary bills. You must also be informed on what your rabbit needs to live a happy and healthy lifestyle. Proper nutrition is vital for your rabbit’s health and need a focus on fiber. Make sure that your rabbit constantly has access to hay and grass.

Adopting a rabbit is a long term commitment. Rabbits can live up to ten years. Therefor, it is very important that you recognize that rabbits all have very unique personalities. When you have made the decision to adopt, make sure you ask a volunteer about the rabbit’s personality to make sure that it is a fitting addition to your family.

With that said, if you are looking to add a rabbit to you family, the best option is to adopt from the SPCA. The SPCA in Montreal receives around 250 rabbits per year. All are looking for loving, forever homes. You can go meet several of the rabbits that are living at the SPCA from 12:00 pm - 7:00 pm , Monday to Friday. Volunteers are always available to answer your questions and help you to find a rabbit that is perfect for you.

Have a great Easter holiday and remember to keep those tails wagging!