At this time of year, veterinarians are especially concerned about what their patients may be eating.

Every year we see pets brought in with very preventable illnesses caused by improper feeding or a lack of proper safeguards for the garbage can.

The arrival of the holidays will mean an increase in the number of pets visiting veterinarians for upset digestive systems due to consuming ''human food'' items. There are numerous tempting dangers for dogs and cats at this time of year.

Thanksgiving and Christmas are typically times of holiday feasts in our homes, and can be a source of tempting handouts or plates of leftovers for pets. Feeding dogs and cats foods that they are not accustomed to can cause a number of problems, from simple vomiting, diarrhea or constipation to intestinal obstruction, perforation or pancreatitis. The most serious offenders are fatty handouts such as meat trimmings, bones and spicy dishes. We also seem to see many dogs that develop GI problems after eating tomato-based foods.

Pet owners need to resist the urge to give their pets leftovers or ''people food'' as treats, and also be sure trash is secure, so that pets don't get into the garbage for tempting things they can smell. Even leaving a plate or food item out on a countertop or table can inspire some pets to unbelievable athletic feats, jumping or climbing up to a location their owners thought the pet could never get to.

One statement I've heard about feeding leftovers that never ceases to amaze me is some variation of ''I smelled it and it smelled bad, so I fed it to my dog.'' If you wouldn't eat it, by no means should you feed it to your pet.

The safest rule is never give your pets human food items. Purchase healthy treats made especially for dogs and cats, and give your pet a modest treat (not a handful) when you are enjoying your holiday delicacies.

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