Festive Hazards for Dogs

Dogs plus Christmas equals trouble wrapped in tinsel. From tempting treats under the tree to sparkly décor just begging to be chewed, Christmas is a wonderland of hidden dangers for our four-legged friends. While you’re decking the halls, a little pet-proofing can go a long way in preventing emergency vet visits.

Some festive foods are definitely not dog-friendly

Remind guests not to share table scraps, no matter how persuasive the puppy-dog eyes! Foods that are off limits for dogs:

• Chocolate: Packed with theobromine  –  delicious to us, toxic to dogs.

• Grapes, Raisins & Mince Pies: Can cause kidney failure, even in small amounts.

• Onions, Garlic & Leeks: Common in holiday dishes and harmful to canine stomachs.

• Alcohol: Even a sip can be dangerous  –  keep mulled wine and sherry well out of reach.

Decoration dangers:

Some of what makes Christmas fun might look tasty to them. Dogs (especially playful pups) love to explore with their mouths  –  and that can spell trouble. Watch out for:

• Baubles and glass ornaments – easy to break and swallow

• Batteries – highly toxic if punctured

• Tinsel, ribbon and string – choking hazards and intestinal blockages

• Fairy lights – risk of electric shock or burns if chewed

Pet-Proof Tip: Use cord covers for lights, hang fragile decorations higher up, and supervise excited dogs around the tree.

If your dog eats something they shouldn’t…

Keep calm and act fast. Time matters with toxic ingestions. Not sure if it’s serious? Don’t wait. Get in touch with your vet to check.

Christmas and New Year appointments

We will be closed on Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day. Give us a call for an appointment or book a pre-Christmas health check online to make sure your dog’s ready for a safe and stress-free holiday.

Quick tips

·      Keep chocolate gifts off the floor

·      Use cable protectors on fairy lights

·      Supervise excitable pups near the tree

·      Store leftovers safely out of sniffing range