Christmas Season

Christmas is a time of cheer for humans. But for pets, it can mean a time of change. There will be more noises and visitors, as well as new objects and smells. Here’s how to keep your pet safe and healthy during the festive season.

Decorations and presents all pose a risk if they are consumed, including:

• candy canes or chocolate
• round, ball-like decorations, which may break in your pet’s mouth, causing lacerations to his intestines and tongue
• sparkly items e.g., flickering tree lights, small and shiny ornaments, ribbon and wrapping paper
• tinsel, which can obstruct the intestines and create a surgical emergency

Keep your pet healthy and happy on Christmas Day with our suggestions:

• Create a calm, quiet spot for your pet away from the noise.
• Exercise your pet before any guests arrive.
• Keep Christmas flowers and plants out of your pet’s reach.
• Quickly clean up any bows, plastic and ribbons so there’s no chance of him swallowing them by mistake.

Here are some tips for spoiling your pet in a healthy, safe way:

• Create a treasure hunt through the house or garden of your pet’s regular dry food.
• Mix your pet’s regular food with a treat.
• Use a recipe that is specifically designed to be a safe treat for your pet.
• Spend extra quality time with your pet by playing games or going for extra walks.
• Purchase pet-friendly Christmas food and treats.

Christmas is a time of giving, but many human foods can cause serious illness. So resist that pleading face, and exercise caution when choosing what treats to give your pet.

Most cooked meats are okay to feed to cats and dogs in small quantities. However, do not feed your pets cooked bones as these they can easily splinter and damage their intestines and throat. Keep meat scraps free of gravy and marinades.

Many sweet treats are toxic for pets, and can even be fatal. This includes:

• chocolate
• Christmas pudding
• currants
• grapes
• lollies
• raisins
• sugar-free sweet products