With the holidays coming, it’s important to keep pets away from something potentially toxic

With the holidays coming up, it’s important to keep pets safe from eating something potentially toxic. One veterinarian talks about what to know — and what to avoid.

Turns out, a lot of our traditional foods can be really bad for our dogs, cats, rabbits and other furry friends. Dr. Mindy Bemmerl is the director of veterinary medicine with the Arizona Humane Society.

"Turkey and ham can have a lot of grease, and can be kind of fatty. Also a lot of the seasoning and spices that we use can contain garlic or onions or things along those lines that can be also toxic to our pets," Bemmerl said.

Raisins and grapes, sometimes found in stuffing, should also be kept away from pets.

"Another thing that we can see is unfortunately the bones. If there's bones in any of the meals, those can become choking hazards," Bemmerl, said.

Holiday decorations and some flowers like poinsettias can also cause serious medical problems.

Bemmerl also recommends knowing your vet’s holiday hours and the closest emergency animal clinic, especially when traveling.

"Sometimes family members think they're being helpful, but they'll give a little bit more food or treats to a pet that is not used to it. We see a lot of GI upset, a lot of vomiting, diarrhea, really bad stomach aches, dehydration, things along those lines," she said.

She says her colleagues are pretty busy this time of year.