Critter Chatter

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The holiday season is upon us and soon family and friends will be coming over to visit, people will be decorating their trees with decorations and lights and individuals will be running in different directions.

In all the excitement, where do Fido and Fluffy fit in? Will someone be watching to make sure that Fido doesn't scarf down the chocolate left on the counter during a cookie-baking marathon? And did anyone notice that Fluffy is playing and chewing on the tinsel? Will you have a safe and happy holiday or will your memories of Christmas 2007 be waiting at the animal emergency clinic in a state of chaos and panic?

Since pets are an important part of many families, we want them to be included in celebrations. But with everything that's going on, how can you know all the potential hazards?

In upcoming December columns, I will try and offer simple and effective safety tips and solutions that will keep Fido and Fluffy out of harm's way so you can plan and enjoy the festive season. We will also talk about why giving a puppy or kitten as a Christmas gift is not the best idea and how instead you can help give homeless pets a better holiday.

If anyone has tips or a story to contribute about their pets and the holidays, e-mail me at lhh4dogS@rogers.com or through The Mirror website at www.insidetoronto.com and we can share information and experiences with other readers.

In the meantime, I was e-mailed an announcement about an upcoming fundraiser that looks like fun and is for a good cause. I see Dave Devall, my favourite weatherman, is the emcee. Perhaps some of you might want to attend.

Christmas fundraiser for the animals

The Organization for the Rescue of Animals is holding its second annual Christmas Party on Sunday, Dec. 2 at the Novotel Toronto Centre, 45 The Esplanade, from 2:30 to 6:30 p.m.

People are invited to spend an afternoon helping the animals. People are also welcome to bring their well-behaved dog.

Emceed by Dave Devall from CTV, the event will feature live entertainment by a chamber piano and string quartet, a dog fashion show, silent auction, pictures with Santa, free massages for the dogs by Corina Grecu, free manicure and nail polishing for dogs, an agility demonstration and animal readings by Rochelle Gai Rodney. There will also be gourmet appetizers and a cash bar for the human companions and an assortment of natural treats for dogs.

Proceeds go to the stray, abused and abandoned animals rescued the Organization for the Rescue of Animals ( www.orarescue.org ).

Tickets are $55 in advance. Dogs get in free. There is a one dog per person limit.

Call 416-726-8895 for tickets.