While visions of sugar plums dance in our heads...

our holiday traditions of candy and good cheer may not be so cheerful to our pets. Hit the jump to learn more.

In 2009, the ASPCA's Animal Poison COntrol Center took over 17,000 calls regarding pets ingesting, and being poisoned by, "people" food. Here is a list of "people" foods that our pets might not thank us for giving them.

-Chocolates, coffee and caffeine
-Alcohol
-Avocados
-Macadamia nuts
-Grapes and raisins
-Yeast dough
-Raw/undercooked meat and meat
-Xylitol (a sweetener found in many products)
-Onions, garlic and chives
-Milk
-Salt

To learn about even more foods that may be dangerous (or not) for your pet during the holidays and all year-round, visit the ASPCA website. Read more...

When the weather outside is frightful...

don't forget to watch out for your furry friends. Hit the jump to find a few seasonal tips to keep your pets safe during extreme weather this winter.

1.) Keep pets inside when the temperature is below freezing.
2.) For outdoor pets, be sure they have proper shelter and their water is not frozen.
3.) After walks in the snow or anywhere that rock salt or other chemical de-icers are in use, be sure to wipe off your dog's legs and belly to prevent them from licking and ingesting those potentially dangerous substances.
4.) Don't leave your cat or dog in the car during cold weather.
5.) If your pet gets stuck outside in freezing weather for a long time it may get hypothermia. Signs include a slow pulse, shallow breathing, disorientation, collapse and unconcsciousness. If wet, dry your pet thoroughly, and then place warm (not hot) water bottles wrapped in towels around your pet. The ears, paws and other poorly insulated parts of the body may have frostbite; DO NOT RUB OR APPLY SNOW OR WATER TO THESE PARTS. Thaw the area slowly and get your pet to the vet as soon as possible.
6.) Antifreeze is a lethal poison to cats and dogs. Clean up any spills and consider using products that contain propylene glycol instead of ethylene glycol. Read more...