Dogs Trust’s top tips to keep your pets safe at Xmas
IF you’re a dog owner, there’s no doubt you’ll want your four-legged friend to enjoy the Christmas period as much as you do.
But human treats and lots of visitors can cause dogs to become stressed and even put their health at risk.
That’s why Dogs Trust Kenilworth has come up with nine top tips to ensure your dog stays happy and safe.
Manager at the rehoming centre Emma Healy said: “It’s the most wonderful time of the year for many and spending Christmas with your canine companions is very special.
“However, the sights, sounds and smells of Christmas can be a sensory overload for your dog, to unexpected visitors to food temptations - there is a lot for your dog (and you!) to cope with.
“With the festive season almost upon us, there are lots of simple things you can do to keep your pooch happy and safe this yuletide season.”
Read on for Dog Trust Kenilworth’s top festive tips for keeping your dog happy and safe this Christmas.
Festive foods to watch out for: Christmas is all about food, but many of the culinary indulgences that we enjoy can be harmful for our four-legged friends, including chocolate which contains a chemical called theobromine, which is poisonous to dogs.
Make sure human treats are kept out of sight, reach and smell - be careful not to leave edible treats under the tree even if they’re wrapped up, dogs’ noses are very sensitive!
Dogs can eat turkey meat but ensure that bones are all removed, as they can become a choking hazard and splinter. Not all dogs can tolerate turkey so if in doubt, speak to your vet.
Decorating the halls: Whilst decking your halls with festive plants like holly, mistletoe, ivy and poinsettia, be mindful that if eaten by your doggy friends these decorations may result in gastrointestinal upsets, such as vomiting and diarrhoea- so keep them in places where your dog can’t reach them. Be aware that your dog may get confused by a tree in their house and be tempted to cock their leg!
Ensure decorations are all properly secured; waggy tails could knock off glass baubles, which could injure your dog’s paws if they fall off the tree and smash. Dogs have incredibly sensitive hearing so make sure your dog is at a distance when pulling crackers and party poppers.
Keeping your dog calm at Christmas: If you have visiting children who aren’t used to being around dogs (or your dog isn’t used to children), talk with the family beforehand to make sure the children understand how to behave, for example, to be calm, and not to approach the dog especially if it is eating or sleeping.
It’s important to never leave a child alone with a dog. Make sure your dog has a designated place to choose to go to for peace and quiet with their doggie bed and fresh water to have a break from the hustle and bustle.