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We all want to have a happy, healthy and fun Christmas - and we want the same for our pets. However, several aspects of the festivites pose risks for our pets - food, drink, decorations, doors left open by guests.
Dr Paul Manktelow, Chief Vet at national pet charity Blue Cross is reminding owners of the dangers many Christmas staples, from Christmas pudding and mince pies to Christmas trees and their decorations, can pose.
Chocolate, raisins, grapes, onions, garlic and alcohol all have the potential to make pets seriously ill and can, in some cases, even be fatal - just a small handful of raisins can cause kidney failure in some dogs, while rich or fatty foods can trigger pancreatitis, a painful and potentially life-threatening condition, and Christmas leftovers may contain hidden toxins or mould, both of which can make pets unwell.
Thankfully, Dr Manktelow can offer reassurance about what is safe. Dogs can enjoy small portions of plain turkey meat (without skin or bones), vegetables (including green beans, Brussels sprouts, parsnips, carrots, peas and swede), and even a little mashed potato (made without butter). However, moderation is key as overfeeding or making sudden changes to a dog’s diet is a common cause of post-Christmas tummy upsets.
Dr Manktelow also offers a plan of action if your pet does get into danger.
Julie shares a couple of stories of how her dogs have narrowly avoided Christmas calamities.
Merry Christmas for the whole DogCast Radio team xx