Less People but Same Danger for Pets.

• Position: HOLIDAY GATHERINGS

While many expect the holidays to look a bit different this year, with families planning to celebrate outdoors or limiting indoor gatherings, this does not necessarily decrease the potential dangers to pets.

"We want everyone to have a safe and happy season, and we also want them to remember that the holidays present a plethora ot dangers to our furry family members," says Brett Levitzke, medical director of the Veterinary Emergency and Referral Group, Brooklyn, N.Y., who urges individuals to consider the following safety tips for their pets:

* Ask family members and guests not to feed pets table scraps during meals or gatherings.

* Do not share fatty foods with pets. Food that is high in fat or contains a lot of butter, like gravy, can cause pancreatitis. Symptoms include vomiting, fever, lethargy, diarrhea, and a decreased appetite. If caught and treated early and aggressively, most dogs recover without long-term issues.

* Keep decorations out of reach, including candles and extension cords.

* Be cognizant of what is inside of floral arrangements, as plants like holly, mistletoe, amaryllis, and lilies can be toxic to cats...