Christmas treats we love but don’t love our four legged friends

One of the most common cases we see at Christmas time is our pets eating things they shouldn’t be eating. We need to be very mindful that when we are asleep or when we go out, our animals can get up to mischief!

Dogs can sniff out any wrapped food items from under the tree. But there are many foods that can cause a very sick dog. Mince pies, fruit cakes or anything containing sultanas or raisins may result in damage to the kidneys. Chocolates and nuts (macadamia nuts and black walnuts) are often given as presents but are toxic to dogs. If you are aware your dog has eaten even a small amount of these items, please call your vet immediately for advice. 

 Cat’s like to play with items that are shiny and sparkly so a newly erected Christmas tree with tinsel and baubles are a cat’s dream come true. Eating these items can cause life threatening damage to a cat’s intestines. So it is best to not use tinsel (or use only short pieces) and only use large baubles. This can be better and easier than trying to lock your cat away from your beautiful Christmas tree.