Adopt-a-Pet.com Urges Pet Owners to Protect Their Pets From the Hidden Hazards of Winter

-- Celebrity Veterinarian Dr. Patrick Mahaney Unveils the Top Five Dangers To Avoid During The Holiday Season and Beyond --

LOS ANGELES, Dec. 10, 2012 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Rock salt, antifreeze and mistletoe - oh my! The holiday season brings many pleasures to our four-legged friends: family gatherings, big meals, special trips, and in many areas some chilly white fluffy stuff to frolic in. However, many pet owners don't realize that when the temperatures drop, the unexpected risks for pets rise.

Adopt-a-Pet.com, North America's largest non-profit pet adoption website, has teamed with celebrity veterinarian Dr. Patrick Mahaney, pet expert for PerezHilton.com's TeddyHilton.com pet website, to uncover the Top Five Winter Hazards that can be life-threatening for pets. They include:

    1. Rock Salt:  If you live in a cold climate where winter brings snow and
       ice, then you're familiar with our first hazard.  Rock salt, also called
       road salt, is sodium chloride mixed with other chemical additives and is
       used to keep sidewalks and roadways from being too slippery from ice. 
       While the mixture works well, it is very tough on our pets' paws and can
       be extremely dangerous if ingested.  Other de-icing agents should also be
       avoided in areas where pets congregate.
    2. Antifreeze:  Pets may be drawn to this popular engine coolant because it
       has a sweet taste, but this exceedingly toxic substance that contains
       ethylene glycol can be found anywhere vehicles drive or park, including
       streets, roadways, parking lots, or even your own driveway.  If ingested,
       this fluorescent green fluid can cause kidney failure or even death in
       pets, and since it's used to control the freezing and boiling point of
       liquids, antifreeze is not exclusively a winter hazard, but also quite
       dangerous during the warmer months as well.
    3. Heating Sources:  Pets may enjoy cozying up near the fireplace to bask in
       the warmth, but this activity is dangerous because of the exposure to
       flames and increased temperatures that can potentially burn their skin. 
       In addition, pet parents need to be extra cautious when exposing their
       furry friends to electric blankets and space heaters because these
       electrical items can become toxic or harmful.
    4. Winter Plants:  Although they look pretty, many holiday plants can be
       poisonous to pets.  Mistletoe, Poinsettias, Holly and Christmas Cactus
       are all extremely toxic and can cause severe gastrointestinal,
       cardiovascular, and neurologic effects if ingested.  Christmas trees are
       also hazardous because not only are the pine needles poisonous, but also
       because of the bacteria and fertilizer harbored in the water stands
       (which pets are known to drink).  Additionally, decorations such as
       tinsel can also be very noxious if consumed.
    5. Festive Foods:  Meats and sweets are treats that pets beg for, but are
       serious no no's when it comes to your pet's health.  Turkey and other
       holiday meats are very high in protein, but if meats in their natural
       form are not a regular part of their diet, they can be hard to digest,
       which can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, or inflammation of the pancreas. 
       Chocolate may be the best-known food danger for pets because it contains
       caffeine.  Dogs in particular do not metabolize these stimulants in their
       liver, and elevations in heart rate, blood pressure, or even seizures,
       coma, or death can occur.  Of course, all candy is high in sugar, which
       can cause digestive issues for all pets.

"During the holiday season, we want to ensure that everyone enjoys a fun and safe celebration, which includes taking a few extra precautions for your beloved pets," remarked Dr. Patrick Mahaney. "Just avoiding the hazardous elements that pose even a remote threat to your pets could make a huge difference in their health and wellness."