The manic mayhem of the holidays is upon us once again. During the next few weeks our pets will also be exposed to a number of hazards that are unique to this time of year. With that in mind I want to pass along some tips to help keep our furry companions happy and healthy.

Most people know that chocolate can be toxic to dogs. I spent many years working in veterinary emergency clinics, and every year I would see dozens of dogs experiencing symptoms related to chocolate ingestion.

When it comes to chocolate the size of the dog matters as well as the type of chocolate. An 80-pound Labrador retriever might easily put away a two-pound bag of milk chocolate kisses with nothing more than some diarrhea as a consequence. Unfortunately, a five-pound poodle eating a half ounce of baking chocolate could be in real trouble. When in doubt, call your veterinarian or the Pet Emergency Center in Mt. Vernon (360-848-5911).

As a side note, I have never seen a cat with chocolate toxicity. I don’t think that cats are immune to the toxic effects of chocolate, but maybe they are just more discriminating than their canine brethren.

Xylitol is an artificial sweetener that is being increasingly used in a variety of products from chewing gum and toothpastes to jellies, candy, baked goods, and even Beano. I mention that last product because I have known people to give it to their dogs to try (unsuccessfully) to minimize the effects of flatulence.

In dogs and cats Xylitol can produce reactions ranging in severity from hypoglycemia and seizures to liver failure and death. The mechanism of the condition is still not completely understood so at this time awareness and avoidance are your best defense.

Commercially made pet treats are often bought as stocking stuffers for both cats and dogs. Be aware of the ingredients in the treats you buy and where they come from.

Since 2007 there has been a problem with some chicken jerky treats manufactured in China that has resulted in a number of deaths in dogs due to kidney failure that developed within hours or days of the product being eaten. The Food and Drug Administration just re-issued that warning as well.

Holiday plants, such as poinsettias and mistletoe, while not lethal, can produce gastrointestinal problems with vomiting and diarrhea if ingested. The preservative used in the water at the base of the Christmas tree stand can produce similar signs.

Christmas tree light cords seem to be a magnet for puppies to chew on, which can result in severe burns to the mouth. On a similar note, cats are often attracted to tinsel and ribbon. This can lead to intestinal obstructions requiring surgery to correct.

Dietary indiscretion during the holidays is the polite way of describing what dogs get into, from meal leftovers to garbage scavenging. Signs typically include vomiting and diarrhea, but may also to progress to more severe problems in some individuals such as pancreatitis. While it is tempting to share the abundance of food with our pets it is best to keep it to a minimum to avoid GI upset.

Stress at this time of year affects pets as well. Our cats may actually be more affected by this than dogs. For all of your pets you can minimize stress by trying to stick to their regular feeding schedules and other routines as much as possible.

If you have a question about your pets it always better to call your veterinarian rather than to ignore it, or, sometimes even worse, rely on the diagnostic assistance of Dr. Google. Here’s to a happy and healthy holiday season to your pets and you.

Dr. Kiel is the U.S. Army veterinarian currently supporting NAS Whidbey Island and Naval Station Everett. His columns appear the first and third Friday of each month. Please send questions or comments to Dr. Kiel at joseph.kiel@navy.mil.