Veterinarian warns of pet emergencies during holiday season

According to veterinarians, pet emergencies are all too common during the holiday season.

Sonja Olson, DVM, who works in the ER of BluePearl Veterinary Partners, joined ABC Action News to answer a few frequently asked questions.

What are the common pet emergencies you see?
Dietary indiscretions - dogs and cats get into things they shouldn't that make them ill including table scraps. Dogs are excellent counter surfers and will even get into alcoholic drinks or stocking stuffers.

How do pet owners prevent these incidents?
You have to be conscientious about puppy proofing or kitty proofing the area. It's important to keep an eye on them and make sure kids know not to give human food to animals.

How can nicely tell friends and family not to feed pets?
This is a time where we're all feeling generous, but we don't want to upset pets' stomachs and spoil the holidays.

What do you do in case of emergency?
Go ahead and contact your family vet during the day. Overnight, contact a local emergency clinic overnight to see if the animal can be treated at home or needs to be taken into a facility.

You can contact the 24/7 Pet Poison Hotline at 800-213-6680 or Animal Poison Control Center at 888-426-4435 to talk to a toxicologist. Keep in mind that there is a per incident charge for both of these hotlines, payable by credit card.

The ASPCA has one of the best websites for plants that are poisonous and non-poisonous (not just holiday plants).

What do you do in case of a poisoning?
Poinsettias are actually not as bad for animals as we initially thought.  Mistletoe (worst), holly and Christmas tree needles are very bad for dogs. Most lily species are toxic to cats. Purchase fake plants or pet safe plants if you have pets.

Tips for traveling with pets?
Travel safety is important - make sure that the animal is either in a crate or a cargo net in the rear of the car. Keep them safely in an area where they won't be thrown around in the vehicle, and don't distract the driver. There are also booster seats available for animals.

For an animal that doesn't normally travel. take some practice trips - small trips before the big trip. Speak to your vet about remedies to alleviate anxiety.

For cats - get a larger dog kennel (traveling kennel) to kind of create a kitty hotel room in the car with a small litter box in it. Use the same litter the cat is used to, and allow them access to small bowls of food and water.

DON'T allow the animal to wander around in the vehicle.

If your pet has any health needs, speak to your vet first about medications. There are motion sickness prescriptions available for dogs.