KEEPING YOUR DOG SAFE THIS CHRISTMAS

HIDDEN DANGERS TO WATCH OUT FOR KEEPING

The Christmas season is a time for joy, family gatherings, and festive treats, but it can also present unexpected dangers for our canine companions. With decorations, special foods, and an abundance of new sights and smells, it’s important to ensure that your dog stays safe and happy throughout the holidays.

Here’s what to watch out for:

ONE

DANGEROUS FOODS

While we indulge in holiday feasts, many traditional Christmas foods can be harmful – even toxic – to dogs:

• Chocolate: Whether it’s advent calendars, truffles, or chocolate coins, chocolate contains theobromine, which is toxic to dogs. Dark chocolate and baking chocolate are especially dangerous.

• Christmas pudding and mince pies: These treats often contain raisins, sultanas, and currants, which can cause kidney failure in dogs.

• Bones from roasts: Cooked bones (especially poultry bones) can splinter and cause choking, intestinal blockages, or internal injuries.

• Stuffing and gravy: Onions, garlic, and other alliums commonly found in stuffing and gravy are toxic to dogs, leading to digestive issues or anaemia.

• Alcohol: Dogs metabolise alcohol very poorly, and even small amounts can cause vomiting, coordination issues, and more severe health complications.

• Nuts: Macadamia nuts, in particular, are highly toxic, causing weakness, tremors, and vomiting.

What to do: Keep food well out of reach, clean up spills immediately, and remind guests not to feed scraps to your dog.

TWO

DANGEROUS CHRISTMAS PLANTS

Many festive plants that decorate our homes during Christmas can pose risks to curious pups:

• Poinsettia: While less toxic than once thought, ingesting poinsettia leaves can still cause irritation to your dog’s mouth and stomach, leading to drooling and vomiting.

• Mistletoe: The berries and leaves can be toxic if eaten, leading to vomiting, diarrhoea, and more severe reactions like slowed heart rate.

• Holly: Holly leaves, and berries are dangerous and can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, and lethargy.

• Christmas trees: Pine needles (real or artificial) can be sharp and cause digestive blockages or injuries if swallowed.

What to do: Keep plants out of reach or opt for pet-safe alternatives. If you use a real Christmas tree, vacuum regularly to reduce the risk of pine needle ingestion.

THREE

DECORATIONS AND SMALL TOYS

Dogs are naturally curious, and shiny decorations or toys can look like exciting playthings. Unfortunately, they often come with dangers:

• Ornaments: Glass baubles can shatter if knocked off the tree, leading to cuts or ingestion hazards. Plastic ornaments may be chewed and swallowed.

• Tinsel and ribbons: Dogs (especially puppies) are drawn to shiny objects, but tinsel and ribbons can cause serious intestinal blockages if eaten.

• Lights and wires: Chewing on electrical cords can result in burns or electric shock.

• Small toys and gifts: Toys with small parts can become choking hazards, and batteries (common in holiday gifts) are extremely dangerous if ingested, leading to chemical burns or internal injuries.

What to do: Place decorations higher up on the tree, keep presents with small parts out of reach, and monitor your dog around decorations.

FOUR

FIRE AND CANDLES

Candles, fireplaces, and even scented oil burners can pose risks:

• Dogs can accidentally knock over candles, leading to burns or fires.

• Curious noses can get too close to open flames, resulting in injuries.

• Scented oils can irritate a dog’s respiratory system or cause toxicity if ingested.

What to do: Keep candles and fireplaces monitored at all times, and use flameless candles for a safer alternative.

FIVE

ACCIDENTS AND OVEREXCITEMENT

With guests coming and going, loud noises, and festive chaos, dogs can quickly become stressed or overexcited. This can lead to accidents like knocking over decorations, dashing out of an open door, or ingesting something they shouldn’t.

What to do: Create a safe, quiet space for your dog to retreat to when the festivities become overwhelming. Ensure doors and gates are secure, and give your dog plenty of exercise and attention throughout the day.

SIGNS YOUR DOG MAY HAVE INGESTED SOMETHING DANGEROUS

If your dog eats something harmful, they may display symptoms such as:

• Vomiting or diarrhoea

• Lethargy or weakness

• Drooling

• Tremors or seizures

• Restlessness or pacing

If you suspect your dog has ingested something toxic, contact your vet immediately.

FINAL THOUGHTS

Christmas should be a magical time for everyone, including your furry friends. By being aware of the hidden dangers and taking simple precautions, you can ensure your dog stays safe, happy, and part of the celebrations. Remember: when in doubt, keep it out of paws’ reach!