Blue Ridge Pet Clinic

12/22/2025

Holiday Hazards for Pets

The holidays bring twinkling lights, festive decor, and delicious treats — but they also introduce risks for curious pets. Here are some important tips to help keep your pets safe throughout the season.

Decorations to Watch Out For
• Tinsel and ribbon can be irresistible to cats but can cause dangerous intestinal blockages if swallowed.
• Fragile ornaments can break into sharp pieces. Keep them higher on the tree or out of reach of playful paws.
• Tree water can contain bacteria and chemicals—cover it to prevent pets from drinking it.
• Electrical cords from lights can pose a shocking hazard. Cord covers or bitter sprays can help deter chewing.

🌱 Toxic Holiday Plants
Several festive plants can be harmful to pets:
• Poinsettias may cause stomach upset
• Mistletoe and holly can be more toxic and may cause vomiting or more serious reactions
• Lilies are extremely dangerous to cats — even small exposures can cause kidney failure

🥘 Holiday Food No-No’s
The holiday table is full of tempting foods that can harm your pet:
• Fatty foods can trigger pancreatitis
• Chocolate, xylitol, grapes/raisins, alcohol, and onions/garlic are highly toxic
• Bones can splinter and cause choking or internal damage

🎉 Stress & Visitors
The extra noise, guests, and activity can overwhelm some pets. Providing a quiet, safe space with familiar bedding and toys can help reduce anxiety.

The holidays should be full of cheer — not emergency vet visits. A little preparation goes a long way in keeping your pets safe, healthy, and happily included in the celebrations. 🐾🎄

12/19/2025

Winter Boredom: Why Mental Enrichment Matters for Pets

Shorter days and colder temperatures often mean fewer walks and less outdoor play. This can lead to boredom, stress, destructive behavior, and weight gain in pets. Mental stimulation is just as important as physical exercise.

🧩 Try Puzzle Feeders & Snuffle Mats
These encourage problem-solving and slow down mealtime, turning food into an engaging activity. Great for both cats and dogs.

💡 Indoor Training Sessions
A few minutes of practicing basic commands or learning new tricks can burn mental energy and strengthen the bond between you and your pet.

🐾 Interactive Toys
Toys that move, crinkle, or dispense treats help keep pets active when outdoor play is limited.

🐱 For Cats: Vertical Space & Window Views
Perches, cat trees, and window shelves offer stimulation and movement. Bird videos and laser pointers also make great indoor enrichment.

Keeping pets mentally stimulated during winter helps prevent anxiety, weight gain, and unwanted behaviors — leading to happier, healthier pets.

12/17/2025

Why Cats Seek More Warmth in Winter

If your cat seems extra cuddly or determined to find the warmest corner of the house this season — it’s not just a cute quirk. Cats naturally seek heat to stay comfortable and healthy during colder months. Here’s why:

🌡️ Higher Natural Body Temperature
Cats run warmer than humans, and they lose heat more quickly in cold environments. This drives them to cozy spots like sunny windows, blankets, laundry piles, and heat vents.

🔥 Cold Weather Can Affect Joints
Senior cats or those with early arthritis may experience more stiffness during winter. Warm, padded bedding can help ease discomfort and support mobility.

🍽️ Metabolism Shifts in Winter
Some cats naturally burn more energy staying warm, which may increase their appetite. However, this varies — which is why keeping an eye on weight is important.

🏡 Indoor Cats Still Feel the Cold
Even indoor-only cats can be affected by drafts, cold tile floors, or overnight temperature drops. Providing warm, elevated resting areas helps them stay comfortable and stress-free.

Winter is the perfect time to give your cat a little extra warmth, love, and comfort. They’ll thank you with purrs. 😺💙

12/15/2025

The Truth About Holiday Weight Gain in Pets

Just like humans, pets can easily gain weight during the holiday season — and even a few extra pounds can impact their long-term health. Here’s what every pet owner should keep in mind:

🍗 More Treats = Hidden Calories
Between table scraps, holiday snacks, and extra “rewards” during gatherings, pets often consume more calories than usual. Overfeeding can lead to pancreatitis, digestive upset, and unnecessary weight gain.

🐶 Activity Levels Drop
Shorter days and cold temperatures mean fewer walks and less outdoor play. This decreases daily activity, making weight gain even more likely.

⚖️ Even Small Gains Matter
2–3 extra pounds may not seem like much, but for pets — especially small dogs and cats — that can equal 10–20 extra pounds on a human. Extra weight puts strain on joints, the heart, and overall health.

🩺 Watch for Early Signs
• Difficulty feeling ribs
• Slowing down
• Hesitating on stairs
• Needing more rest
If you notice changes, we can help create a winter-friendly weight plan.

Healthy treat swaps, controlled feeding, and structured play can keep your pet fit and feeling great all season long. 🎄💪🐾

12/12/2025

Space Heaters & Pets: Important Winter Safety Tips

Space heaters help keep homes cozy, but they pose some serious risks to pets if not used carefully.

🔥 Burn Risk
Pets may lie too close to heaters, risking burns from hot surfaces. Always choose heaters with cool-touch exteriors or automatic shut-off if they tip.

🐾 Fire Hazards
Cats may knock over heaters while exploring, or dogs may bump into them. Keep heaters on flat, stable surfaces and never leave them unattended.

🔌 Chewing Danger
Cords from heaters can tempt chewers. Use cord protectors and keep wires out of reach.

❄️ Use Safe Alternatives
Heated pet beds, self-warming blankets, or elevated bedding provide warmth without the same risk.

A warm home is wonderful — but keeping it safe for your pets is even better. With a few precautions, you can enjoy winter comfort without compromising your pet’s safety.

12/10/2025

Why Senior Pets Need Extra Care in Winter

Cold weather can be especially hard on senior pets. As the temperatures drop, older dogs and cats may struggle more with mobility, comfort, and overall health. Here’s what pet owners should know this winter:

🌡️ Joint Stiffness & Arthritis
Cold temperatures can worsen arthritis symptoms, making it harder for senior pets to move comfortably. Watch for stiffness, limping, hesitation to jump, or difficulty standing. Adding warm bedding, gentle exercise, and talk with us about joint supplements or pain management options can make a big difference.

🛌 Warm, Draft-Free Sleeping Areas
Senior pets can’t regulate body temperature as easily. Ensure their bedding is off cold floors, away from drafts, and washed regularly. Heated pet beds or microwavable warming pads (used safely) can provide added comfort.

🦷 Winter Can Mask Dental Pain
Pets tend to eat differently in colder months, and dental disease may go unnoticed. Watch for bad breath, dropping food, pawing at the mouth, or reluctance to chew. A winter dental check can prevent infections and keep your pet pain-free.

🩺 More Frequent Wellness Checks
Senior pets benefit from twice-yearly exams to monitor kidney function, thyroid levels, heart health, and mobility. Early detection is the key to a comfortable winter season.

With a little extra attention, your senior pet can stay warm, happy, and thriving all winter long. 💙🐾

12/09/2025

Happy International Day of Veterinary Medicine!

Today we celebrate the incredible dedication, skill, and compassion of veterinary professionals around the world — and especially right here at Blue Ridge Pet Clinic.

From routine wellness exams to life-saving emergency care, our veterinarians and support team work tirelessly to keep your pets healthy, comfortable, and thriving. Their commitment goes far beyond medicine — it’s about kindness, patience, education, and a true love for every animal that walks through our doors.

Join us in thanking our veterinary team for:
• Their long hours and big hearts
• The care they provide to pets and the families who love them
• Their continued learning to stay on the cutting edge of veterinary medicine
• Their passion for improving animal health in our community

If you’ve had an experience with one of our veterinarians that made a difference to you or your pet, feel free to share it in the comments — we’d love to hear your story!

Thank you, veterinary professionals, for everything you do, today and every day.

12/08/2025

1. Winter Pet Safety Tips

Winter in the White Mountains is beautiful — but it brings unique risks for our pets. As the temperatures drop, it’s important to understand how cold weather affects our furry family members and how we can keep them safe and comfortable.

Protect Their Paws
Ice melt products, frozen sidewalks, and sharp ice can irritate or injure paw pads. After walks, check your pet’s paws for cracks, redness, or lodged ice. Wiping them down can prevent ingestion of harmful chemicals. Consider booties for added protection.

🐾 Beware of Antifreeze
Antifreeze is extremely toxic to pets, and it only takes a small amount to cause life-threatening poisoning. Clean up any leaks or spills immediately and keep all automotive fluids securely stored. If you suspect your pet ingested antifreeze, seek emergency care right away.

🐾 Keep Outdoor Pets Warm
If your pet spends time outside, make sure they have access to warm, dry shelter. Hypothermia can happen quickly in freezing temperatures. Short-haired, senior, or underweight pets are especially vulnerable and should not be left outside for extended periods.

🐾 Watch for Signs of Hypothermia
Shivering, lethargy, stiff muscles, or pale gums can be early warning signs. Bring your pet indoors immediately if you notice these symptoms and contact your veterinarian.

Let’s enjoy winter safely — keeping those paws warm, bodies protected, and tails wagging all season long!

12/04/2025

World Wildlife Conservation Day
Today we pause to recognize the beauty, importance, and vulnerability of the wildlife that shares our planet. From the forests and mountains to the deserts and oceans, every species plays a vital role in keeping our world balanced and thriving.

At Blue Ridge Pet Clinic, we believe that caring for animals extends beyond our homes — it includes respecting and protecting the wildlife around us.

How You Can Help Conservation Efforts:
✔️ Support organizations that protect natural habitats
✔️ Reduce waste and recycle whenever possible
✔️ Keep pets safely contained to avoid impacts on native wildlife
✔️ Learn about endangered species and the challenges they face
✔️ Teach children the importance of respecting all living creatures

Every small action creates a ripple of positive change. Together, we can ensure future generations experience the incredible wildlife we enjoy today.

Let’s celebrate the wild — and protect it.

12/03/2025

Happy National Cat Lovers Month!

All December long we’re celebrating the people who proudly wear cat hair like glitter, share their pillows with purring roommates, and know the true joy of a slow blink from their feline best friend.

At Blue Ridge Pet Clinic, we adore our cat-loving community and the amazing kitties you share with us. From sassy seniors to playful kittens, each one brings personality, comfort, and laughter to our lives.

🎉 This month, join the celebration!
✔️ Share your favorite cat photo in the comments
✔️ Tell us what makes your kitty special
✔️ Ask us your feline-care questions — we’re here to help!
✔️ Be on the lookout for fun cat-themed tips, spotlights, and more all month long!

Give your feline friend some extra chin scratches today… they deserve it.

— Blue Ridge Pet Clinic

11/27/2025