Think before buying pets. CHRISTMAS IS a time for giving. For some. this ruay include giving a pet to a friend or loved one Although the idea sounds great, there are some drawbacks. A pet is for life and as a present, needs a great deal of consicleration beforehand. If the pet is for children, ensure they understand the responsibilities of own- ing a pet. Otherwise. Mom may be the pet's sole caretaker. The ideal circumstance for a new puppy or kitten to corne into your home is when everything is calm and stress-free. Only then can everyone give the fea undivided attention that this youngest family member needs. f= Alternatives to giving the actual pet include placing a picture of the propos- man ed pet under the tree to ensure this is truly what the person wants, or purchas- Be ing a gift certificate that will allow the purchase of the pet when the moment is right. With forettiought, a pet can be a wonderful addition to the life of so- meone special. N This article was provided by Dr. Brad Gilbert, DVM. — a North Shore veterinarian. NATURALLY ao PRESERVED © With Vitamin E HYPOALIERGENIC ROYAL PET FOODS © NO ETHOXYQUIN (Naturally Preserved with Vitamin E) © HYPOALLERGENIC (Lamb meal and rice formula) © HEALTHY SKIN AND COAT (Formulated with Safflower Oil) x $400 OFF On any NUTROMAX, x $900 or >. On any NUTROMAX Valid Dec. 5-12 * Free samples © Display on Sat., 1846 MARINE DR. 922-3071 WEST VAN Dec. 8 Wednesday. December 5, 1990 - North Shore News ~ 55 ‘Holiday Health Tips for your Pets During the holiday season and throughout the remainder of the winter season, pet perils exist. These hazards include antifreeze poisoning, tinsel ingestion, fan belt in- juries to cats, and more. Preventative measures and early recognition are the keys you need to ensure your pet stays healthy, Dr. Brad Gilbert. a North Shore veterinarian, explains, “Some of these problems can be fatal. A very small amount of antifreeze can lead to irreversible kidney damage. Tinsel ingestion by cats can lead to severe bowel injury and possible obstruction. Trauma by engine fan belts can fatally injure a cat. Chocolate poisoning in dogs can lead to severe vorniting and diarrhea, or heart failure. Turkey bone ingestion can cause an upset stomach or severe 2 intestinal injury, Even over-ingestion of fat and trimmings from the turkey can cause vomiting’ It is not all bad news though. ‘Poinsettia plants which have been long regarded as a potential poison to animals appears to be less toxic than first thought? Dr. Gilbert adds that at this time it is still wise to be careful with these plants until further studies have proven them safe. - 41a Pooche Hut: Oe Gas | 2951 Lonsdale, North Van All Breeds of Dogs & Cats T.L.C. PET GROOMING * Bathing * Chpping Service * Grooming Open Tuesday to Saturday 8.30 am. to 5:60 pm 985-2232 yee OMe b CATERING TO YOUR PET'S EVERY NEED A full selection of Pet Foods including NO-NAME & PRESIDENT’S CHOICE WEST VANCOUVER LYNN VALLEY 2491 MARINE DRIVE 1199 LYNN VALLEY RD. DEEP COVE 4S NORTH DOLLARTON HIGHWAY This space has been sponsored by the business below to assist the SPCA in finding homes for these snimais availiable for adoption. For more intormation, please call SPCA 922-4622. Ha! Male, white angora rabbit. I'm a flepsy, mopsy bundle of fun — Ready to play, romp and run | THE PAPER GARDEN - BRING YOUR GIFT IN WE GL WRAP IT LOTS OF HOXES «Bi “BOWS €o oe PERDCHALZED B 1353 Marine Dr., W.Van. 925-2162 “KENZIE’’. 2 MALE CHOCOLATE LABS These puppies truly need a lovin new home! Says Myrna MYRNA HOWARD | Sales Representative | Bus. 925-1441 Res. 987-6930 MR. & WRS. LOVEBIRDS Birds of a feather sing better together whenever there is a friend nearby. ein . “We Suppart The SPCA’ Caulteild Village - | 5373 Headland Or., W.V. 925-3959 ““CHESIE’’ 4% years old. It’s a dog's tife but someone is going to have to love West Vancouver 2491 Marine Orive Lyan Vatley 1897 Lynn valley Ad. Deep Cove 415 N.Doillarton Hwy. A mate shorthatred black cat. PURA-PURR. I'm looking for a purr-fect friend to play with. NORTH SHORE AUTO FAMILY i CHRYSLER 980-8501 NISSAN 985-9311. MAZDA 987-4458