HOLIDAY HAZARDS!

It’s officially Summer! This means fabulous food at Christmas, traveling to see our friends and family and celebrating the new year with fireworks. Whilst it can be a fun time of the year for us, did you know this is an especially hazardous time of the year for our furry friends?

Here are our top tips to keep your pets out of danger this holiday season.

Food

Christmas is all about family get-togethers, gifts and of course food! However, there are items on the Christmas table our pets stomachs can’t handle;

  • Chocolate
  • Raisins and Currants
  • Alcohol
  • Avocado
  • Cooked Bones (these can splinter in your pets mouth or stomach!)
  • Walnuts & Macadamias
  • Onions and Garlic
  • Dairy
  • Grapes
  • Mushrooms
  • Fatty Foods
  • Xylitol (Gum, Candy etc) 

If you suspect your dog has eaten or ingested something that could be harmful, contact your vet immediately! 

Fireworks and Events

We all enjoy the New Year’s Fireworks; though it can be a scary time for our pets. The bright lights and unpredictable loud noises can cause your pet stress and anxiety. Lots of beloved pets go missing or run away around this time of year.

This can be prevented by: 

  • Making sure your gates are closed 
  • Ensuring your pet is wearing a collar with a name & phone number
  • Keeping your pet’s microchip details up to date

Keep your pet as calm as possible during these moments by keeping the windows and curtains closed, letting them go to their safe place and the best thing you can do is act like everything is normal; excessive cuddling & consoling may have the opposite effect, making your pet believe you’re worried. 

Ensuring your pet is safe during the silly season will mean everyone has a great Summer holiday!

Reach out to us if you have any questions or concerns this festive season and we hope you, your family and your pet have a wonderful Christmas and New Year!