Christmas Time for Dogs
The Christmas season can be a magical time for humans, but for our dogs, it can be a minefield of hidden dangers or stresses. Although we know it’s Christmas and a happy time to share with family and friends, eathing and drining, our dogs of course don’t know this and it can be overwhelming for them. There are also so many other hidden dangers that it’s easy to forget. So let’s keep your pooches safe and happy this Christmas.
Here’s how to keep your dog safe and happy while you’re jingling all the way.
Festive Foods
Oh, the lovely smells of Christmas baking, but not everything delicious to us is safe for your dog.
- Raisins and Grapes: Your Christmas cake and mince pies may be packed with these, but even a small amount can be toxic to dogs.
- Chocolate: Those festive chocolate coins, tree-hanging treats or tins of chocolate or chocolate biscuits left out for free dipping, are dangersou for your dog. Keep them out of reach. Even if you think they’re out of reach, don’t leave your dog in the same room, unattended.
- Xylitol: Found in sugar-free sweets and even some baked goods. This artificial sweetener is highly toxic to dogs, so check your labels!
- Alcohol: Whether it’s in alcohol laced chocolates, trifle, or someone’s spilled mulled wine, even a tiny amount can be dangerous for your pooch.
When in doubt, stick to dog-safe treats. If you like cooking, you could even whip up some homemade Christmas snacks just for your pup.
Christmas Decorations
All the colours and lights at Christmas are joyous aren’t they. It really brightens up the dark winter days. But just take a little heed of the potential dangers to your dog.
- Pine Needles: If you’re a fan of a real Christmas tree, those fallen needles can be more than just a pain to step on – they can cause choking or internal injuries if swallowed. They can, if not found and removed from their paws, penetrate and do some very serious harm internally.
- Tree Water: You wouldn’t drink stale tree water, and neither should your dog. Bacteria and chemicals from tree preservatives can be harmful.
- Baubles and Tinsel: Dangly, shiny things are a dog’s dream – until they end up in their mouths. Chewed baubles can shatter, while tinsel can cause blockages if ingested.
- Light Cables: Festive lights are beautiful but keep the cables well out of reach. Chewing on these could lead to shocks or burns. Remember to turn them off when you’re not supervising.
A well-anchored tree and decorations placed high up can save you and your dog from a Christmas disaster.
Christmas Plants
Holly, mistletoe, poinsettias – they’re all beautiful, but did you know many traditional Christmas plants are toxic to dogs?
- Holly and Mistletoe: It’s not just chewing on the leaves but remember their berries are toxic to your dog if eaten. Let’s face it, some dogs will just eat anything, edible or not.
- Poinsettias: While not as toxic as people think, they can still cause irritation to your dog’s mouth and stomach.
To be on the safe side, keep all plants well out of your dog’s reach, and be mindful of fallen leaves or berries.
Presents and Wrapping Paper
Presents and the unwrapping is exciting, and may well excite your dog too, but here’s a few hazards to be remember:
- Batteries: Small, shiny, and easily swallowed – batteries are a hidden danger, especially with children’s toys around. Swallowed batteries can cause burns and poisoning.
- Ribbons and Wrapping Paper: As fun as it is to shred, these can cause blockages in your dog’s intestines if ingested.
- Scented Gifts: Be cautious with perfumes, candles, or anything heavily fragranced – curious noses and tongues can lead to a tummy upset or worse.
Make sure you tidy up all the wrapping aftermath before your dog decides to “help”!
Christmas Chaos and Strangeness
Dogs thrive on routine, so the festive hustle and bustle may feel a little overwhelming, especially for more wary or nervous dogs.
- Noise: From wrapping paper rustling to noisy toys and gadgets, the extra sound can startle or frighten sensitive dogs.
- Visitors: Christmas gatherings mean more people, which can be exciting for some dogs and stressful for others.
- Environment Changes: New smells, new objects, and rearranged furniture – it’s a lot to process!
Be sure you dog has a haven – a quiet, familiar spot where they can retreat when things get too much. If you use a crate, this is the ideal haven.
A Merry (and Safe) Christmas for All!
Christmas should be a happy time, but over the years, I have heard many families Christmas tragedies, where dogs have ended up in the vets, been seriously injured or worse.
Keep your Christmas Happy. Take the necessary precautions and supervise your dog. 🎄🐾
