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Should Foods Come with Choking Warnings?

Warning labels for choking hazards are required on certain toys — especially those with small parts and balls. Here in the United States, it’s a federal law! But there isn’t a similar law on the books for foods that may be choking hazards. The American Academy of Pediatrics — the largest group of pediatricians in the United States — would like to see a similar federal law for foods that may be choking hazards… or see more foodmakers willingly add choking hazard warnings to their labels. Another alternative would be redesigning foods to make them less of a choking hazard … Continue reading →

Common Choking Hazards for Pets

Let’s face it — pets eat some weird things. I’ve caught my boxer mix Lally chewing on things like wicker baskets and even the cord of my vacuum cleaner. My other dog, Moose, is more of a licker than a chewer, but I’ve seen him licking the comforter, the floor, and even the walls. Like I said, weird taste. Younger animals are more likely to sample non-food objects than older ones are — some veterinarians think that’s just the curiosity of the young. Eating strange things may also be a throwback to wild animals that eat the entire body of … Continue reading →

Are your decorative holiday plants toxic?

Hanging a holly wreath on the front door to welcome guests… Smelling the fresh evergreen scent as you walk by the tree… Stealing a kiss underneath the mistletoe… What do all these holiday images have in common? Poison. Yes, poison. Some or all parts of these plants are toxic to people, pets, or both. Many are also choking hazards. Holly Who doesn’t love the festive look of holly with its distinctively shaped glossy, dark green leaves and bright red berries? Me, actually – those leaves are sharp! Far more importantly, the berries of the holly (ilex spp.) bush are genuinely … Continue reading →