Due to the increased dangers present in the home at Christmas, Yorkshire Vet star Matt Jackson-Smith is urging dog owners to take extra care to keep their pets safe over the holiday season.
From decorations to festive foods, Yorkshire Vet Matt Jackson-Smith says there are more hazards around the home at this time of year for dogs.
And some of these dangers can lead to serious illness and even death for our four-legged furbabies.
Matt, who will be enjoying Christmas in Yorkshire with his dog Harry, wife Catherine and their two-year-old daughter, Anastasia says it’s important to know what your dog can and can’t eat.
“At this time of year, vets frequently see dogs who have swallowed foreign objects like tinsel, got into chocolate selection boxes that are often left lying around the house, or even eaten the Christmas pudding,” he says.
If you don’t know what your pet can and can’t eat, it can be expensive, even though it’s a fun time of year for the family.
Owners are unaware that raisins in mince pies are toxic and can sometimes lead to kidney failure or that rich, fatty foods can cause pancreatitis.
Everyone who enjoys the holiday season can enjoy it, so it’s good to be prepared to help our four-legged friends enjoy this time of year as well. “It can also be a stressful time for dogs, with lots of noise and visitors.
Top five dog safety advice from Matt for this holiday season:
1. Pancreatitis
Consuming rich, fatty foods can cause pancreatitis, and leftovers are plentiful at Christmas. Dogs can experience severe pain and vomiting as well. The best way to avoid giving leftovers away is to always choose a small amount of plain turkey or steamed vegetables.
2. bones that have been carved
Cooked bones, especially poultry bones, can splinter in the gut, lodge in it, and inflict extensive internal harm. Cooked bones are dangerous and should never be given to dogs, despite their appearance.
3. ornaments and decorations
Festive decorations can look shiny, crinkly, and irresistible to dogs as exciting enrichment toys. They can, however, easily lodge in the digestive system and cause obstruction. The intestines may become infected with an extremely serious condition known as intussusception, which frequently necessitates surgery. Place safe, pet-friendly toys in the vicinity of the decorations and keep them out of the way.
4. Stress and anxiety
More people and noise can be expected during Christmas, which can be a busy and overwhelming time. Make sure your dog can retreat and feel secure in a quiet, secure area with their favorite toys.
5. Toxic Christmas treats
Christmas is the most toxic season for food in homes than any other time of year. Canine exposure to severe illnesses, including kidney failure, includes chocolate, grapes, onions, and garlic, as well as chocolate (the darker the darker), Christmas cake, and grapes.
Matt adds: “There are many ways to avoid a nightmare before Christmas. Not all dogs are the same – some will scavenge no matter how full they are – but one option is to give them a full belly before the festivities begin. Feeding them something natural, complete and balanced, like Butcher’s food for dogs, can help reduce the temptation to scavenge while you enjoy your Christmas dinner.”
Source: Mirror
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