Holly, Jolly and Oh-So-Safe! Of course you want to include your furry companions in the festivities, pet parents, but as you celebrate this holiday season, try to keep your pet's eating and exercise habits as close to their normal routine as possible. And be sure to steer them clear of the following unhealthy treats, toxic plants and dangerous decorations:



O Christmas Tree Securely anchor your Christmas tree so it doesn't tip and fall, causing possible injury to your pet. This will also prevent the tree water—which may contain fertilizers that can cause stomach upset—from spilling. Stagnant tree water is a breeding ground for bacteria and your pet could end up with nausea or diarrhea should he imbibe.



Tinsel-less Town

Kitties love this sparkly, light-catching "toy" that's easy to bat around and carry in their mouths. But a nibble can lead to a swallow, which can lead to an obstructed digestive tract, severe vomiting, dehydration and possible surgery. It's best to brighten your boughs with something other than tinsel.



No Feasting for the Furries

By now you know not to feed your pets chocolate and anything sweetened with xylitol, but do you know the lengths to which an enterprising fur kid will go to chomp on something yummy? Make sure to keep your pets away from the table and unattended plates of food, and be sure to secure the lids on garbage cans.



Toy Joy

Looking to stuff your pet's stockings? Choose gifts that are safe.



Dogs have been known to tear their toys apart and swallowing the pieces, which can then become lodged in the esophagus, stomach or intestines. Stick with chew toys that are basically indestructible, Kongs that can be stuffed with healthy foods or chew treats that are designed to be safely digestible.

Long, stringy things are a feline's dream, but the most risky toys for cats involve ribbon, yarn and loose little parts that can get stuck in the intestines, often necessitating surgery. Surprise kitty with a new ball that's too big to swallow, a stuffed catnip toy or the interactive cat dancer—and tons of play sessions together.

Forget the Mistletoe & Holly

Holly, when ingested, can cause pets to suffer nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Mistletoe can cause gastrointestinal upset and cardiovascular problems. And many varieties of lilies, can cause kidney failure in cats if ingested. Opt for just-as-jolly artificial plants made from silk or plastic, or choose a pet-safe bouquet.



Leave the Leftovers

Fatty, spicy and no-no human foods, as well as bones, should not be fed to your furry friends. Pets can join the festivities in other fun ways that won't lead to costly medical bills.     Have a Happy Holiday and keep those fluffy friends safe!

Welcome, new ACO Coral Hope!

As of December 16th, the city's new animal control officer is Coral Hope. Coral comes to us with a wealth of excellent experience. She can be reached within the Health Department office. Her direct line is 781-979-4102.

October lost and found

• October 4- lost cat, long haired, grey, Main St.
• October 8- lost cat, short haired, orange and white, clipped ear, Greystone Rd.
• October 10- lost cat, all black, green eyes. Mt. Vernon Ave.
• October 10- lost cat, small, grey and white, Washington St.
• October 9- lost cat, greyish browm tiger, Grandview Ave.
• October 20- found cat, orange and white, Lynde St.
• October 21- lost cat, large grey DSH male, Penny Hill Rd.

Melrose Dog Festival



Across from Melrose High School, 360 Lynn Fells Parkway






Dog Show, Games, Give-aways

  



Door Prize proceeds to benefit Melrose Dog Park

 



Info on responsible dog ownership and training
Check back frequently for more info.
12:00- view booths and try dog games
1:00- Urban mushing demo by Boston Snow Dogs
1:30- Dog show starts

 

September lost and found pets

• September 4- found dog- small, young adult male Beagle, Penny Rd.
• September 8- lost cat, male Ragdoll, blue eyes, Hunnewell St.
• September 10- lost cat, black and grey tiger cat, Washington St.
• September 10- python, Penny Rd./Dexter Rd. area.
• September 9- lost cat, male Himalayan, flame point, Rockwood St.
• September 10- lost cat, large long-haired black and white, Hancock St.
• September 20th- found cat, DSH, small, solid black, Lynn Fells Parkway at Aaron St.
• September 23rd- lost cat, DSH, solid black (not same cat as above), Stone Ave. Stoneham
• September 25- found cat, small, black with white spot on neck, Penny Rd
• September 26th- lost cat, mostly grey calico DSH, Carlida Rd.
• September 26th \- lost cat, grey DSH, Crescent Ave.
• September 30th- lost cat, black Manx (no tail), Hancock St.

Found dog

Found dog- young male Beagle, found September 4. Please call 781-979-4102 to claim.

August lost and found pets

• August 7- Found cat- declawed female, mostly black, Perkins St. OWNER FOUND!
• August 9- Found cat- Siamese mix, Washington St.
• August 11- Lost cat, male Maine Coon, brown and black, Elm St.
• August 12- Lost cat, male Bengal, Upham St.
• August 11- Found cat, black and white, double paws, bent over ear, Crystal St.
• August 14- Lost cat, DLH, orange and white, Wheeler Ave.
• August 19- found cat, DSH, calico, collar and untraceable microchip.
• August 21- Found cat, long haired calico and 4 kittens, Prospect St.
• August 25- Lost cat, large buff/orange Maine Coon, Rowe St.
• August 26- Found cat, small balck Persian, clipped fur, Whittier/Baxter St.