How to have a pet-safe Christmas!

Christmas can be tiring for both you and your dog, but ensure you still have a good, stress-free Christmas with our top tips!

1. Firstly, choosing a fake tree will be much safer for your four-legged friend. Even though real Christmas trees look and smell gorgeous, the pine needles can be hazardous to dogs as the needles can get stuck into their paws or even worse if your dog decides to eat them, they make get lodged in their throat. SO a fake tree is definitely the safer and better option!
2. Chocolate is toxic! For a lot of people, Christmas wouldn’t be Christmas without lots and lots of chocolate. However chocolate and alcohol can be very dangerous to dogs as chocolate contains a small compound called theobromine which is toxic to canines.
3. A little kiss under the mistletoe is traditional however a lot of festive plants are toxic to dogs (especially the ones with berries in). Other poisonous plants include the popular poinsettia and amaryllis. So keep any festive plants out of the way from dogs.
4. We all eat way too much on Christmas day, while a small amount of turkey and some vegetables will be no harm to your dog, avoid feeding your dog any other table scraps. Be very careful that your dog doesn’t consume any turkey or chicken bones which can splinter and stick in his/her throat or digestive tract.
5. Christmas pudding is delicious! However not so much for dogs! Grapes, raisins, currants and sultanas are all toxic to dogs and it is believed the dried forms of these fruits are more toxic than grapes. At this time of year, it is therefore important to ensure that your dog does not consume any of these. These include: Christmas Cake, Christmas Pudding, Mince pies, Fruit cake, stolen and chocolate covered raisins.

Festive food for your pets!

Skinless and boneless white meat such as turkey is okay for dogs and cats, but be careful that it’s not covered in fat, salt or gravy.  It’s best to keep to your pets eating their appropriate food.

If you want to treat your pet to some festive bites, try our cat and dog treats below, but be sure to feed treats in moderation as extra weight can lead to health problems.

Advice for everyone over Christmas!

Keep a number of an emergency vet on hand in case of accidents or if your pet eats something that they shouldn’t.

If your pet is on medication, stock up before the holidays so you don’t get caught out.

If you’re going away over Christmas, be sure to make plans for your pets – whether they’re coming with you or not.