Keeping your dog safe and happy at Christmas!
Christmas is fast approaching, and amongst all the excitement and festivities, it’s important we remember the wellbeing and happiness of our four legged friends. Below we’ve shared some things to consider this Christmas period!
Christmas dinner:
It can be tempting to plate up a mini christmas dinner for your pooches, but it’s important to be aware of what they can and can’t have, and ask any dinner guests to not be tempted to feed your pets either (as tempting as it can be with those puppy dog eyes!). Avoid leaving any food within reach of your pets. When buying Christmas treats for your four legged friends, avoid rawhide! It is high in salt, contains chemicals used to treat it and can sometimes contain glue. Rawhide is intended for chewing, not eating, and so any rawhide that is ingested can potentially cause a blockage in the gastrointestinal passage or cause a blockage in the dogs throat.
Avoid:
Gravy.
Gravy is high in salt and fat.
Grapes, raisins, currants and sultanas.
These foods are highly toxic to dogs. Christmas treats such as Christmas pudding, Christmas cake and mince pies should never be fed to dogs, and ideally kept out of reach at all times.
Pigs in blankets.
Too high in salt and fat for dogs.
In moderation:
Turkey.
You can give your pet some white turkey meat, but ensure the skin and all bones have been removed.Potatoes.
Dogs will enjoy boiled or mashed potato, but make sure that it contains no salt or butter.Vegetables.
Dogs can have certain vegetables, but again, in moderation. Some examples of Christmas vegetables they can have are sprouts, swedes, parsnips, carrots and green beans.
Decorating your home:
A beautifully decorated Christmas tree and home can be very tempting for your pooches, with all the ornaments and shiny objects! Ensure that Christmas decorations are out of reach of curious doggies, and any wires or lights are neatly tucked away to prevent chewing.
The following festive plants are poisonous/harmful to pets:
- Mistletoe
-Holly
-Poinsettia
-Ivy
If you have a real Christmas tree, ensure you’re clearing up any fallen needles to prevent them getting stuck in delicate paws!
A safe space:
The hustle and bustle of the Christmas period can become overwhelming for your pets, so it’s key to create them a quiet and cosy space, where they can spend time if they need a break from the festivities. Make sure your guests are aware of your dog's quiet zone.
Routine:
As tempting as it is to eat, drink, be merry and have a festive nap or two, it’s still important to ensure you’re providing your dog with regular exercise. Nothing quite beats a Christmas Day walk, especially if it’s been snowing! Add in some mental stimulation using enrichment activities such as snuffle mats and licki mats for an even more content pooch!
Happy Christmas!
Paul & Alice
