Christmas is nearly here! Even though this year it may be a little different from other Christmases it’s still an exciting time for children and adults. Many families are decorating their homes just that bit extra, but Christmas decorations and other seasonal trimmings can be hazardous to our dogs. Are you aware of what is safe and what could be dangerous for your pup? We’ve put together a list of potential hazards for dogs at Christmas, so that you can all enjoy the season.
Toxic foods
Chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions and macadamia nuts all tend to be consumed that bit more over Christmas. All of these foods are poisonous for dogs, so should be well out of reach of your pup. Another item to add that out-of-reach list is xylitol, a sugar-free sweetener found in sweets and sugar-free food. Again, this is extremely poisonous to pups, so don’t leave foods containing xylitol within licking distance.
What about Christmas dinner? As delicious as the aroma of a Christmas dinner is to your dog, it’s really better if he is given his regular food. Rich foods can cause pancreatitis in dogs so are best avoided. A small amount of cooked turkey might go down well on the big day, but make sure there are no bones in there as these are likely to splinter affecting internal organs.
A full list of foods that dogs are best to avoid is detailed here.
Poisonous plants
Many of us add more seasonal plants to our homes at Christmas in the form of poinsettias, holly and mistletoe. The traditional decorative plants of holly and mistletoe when ingested are very dangerous for dogs and poinsettia’s are likely to leave them feeling pretty poorly too. More items to keep well out of reach.
Decorations
And last on a list of hazards for dogs at Christmas, but by no means least – Christmas decorations. Your Christmas tree (and all of its decorations) poses a danger to your dog. So it’s important to keep a close eye on him if he’s near the tree. Christmas trees can be knocked over and should be secured and weighted down. Glass decorations should be hung on higher branches to ensure that Fido can’t reach them. Don’t let your pup drink the water in the tree holder, as it can cause gastrointestinal problems.
We wish you and your pup a very merry and hazard-free Christmas!
Information given in this article is not a substitute for advice from a qualified medical professional. Please consult a veterinarian for advice specific to your dog.
