Dear Dr. John,
We are getting our Christmas tree and wonder if there are any precautions we should take with our rambunctious Golden Retriever puppy. He is not quite six months old and is always knocking things over and getting into everything! He is still teething, and can you tell us how much longer will this continue?
We have concerns about the tree and all the trimmings, ornaments, and lights. Do you have any tips that might help us since we have not had a puppy before? M.C.
Dear M.C.,
The holidays can be a joyful time, but challenges can exist when one has young pets in the home as they can get into things they shouldn’t, and problems can arise. You are wise to ask in advance about what to look out for.
Give your pup some good chew toys for Christmas since the teething will continue for some time. Since you have a Retriever, know that they are orally fixated dogs and will always want something in their mouth including food since they love to eat. Good chew toys can also distract the young dog from getting into trouble by exploring and putting ornamental things in their mouth.
There are many things that can cause problems. Keep the trash well-covered so the puppy does not get into it. Wrapping and ribbons, if ingested, can get stuck in the intestines and can even lead to a need for surgical removal. Tinsel can be especially detrimental and might be best avoided all together. An excited puppy might jump up on a tree because of the lights and ornaments and distractions can go a long way in avoiding that.
Make sure that any electrical cords are covered and not visible enough for a curious puppy to chew. Too many veterinarians have had to treat electrical burns in the mouth from dogs chewing them. Also, do not let the puppy drink the water in the tree stand as it can also get the pup sick. Lastly, beware of the puppy chewing any decorative holiday plants. Poinsettias can be highly toxic. Good precautions will allow you all to have a happy holiday with your new family member. Merry Christmas!
Dr. John de Jong is President of the World Veterinary Association. He owns and operates the Boston Mobile Veterinary Clinic and can be reached at 781-899-9994.