Christmas cheer without the tears: keeping pets safe through the festive season

The holiday period is a time of joy, indulgence and togetherness. For many of us that includes our four-legged family members. Pets often find themselves at the centre of the celebrations - relaxing under the tree, fronting family photos or eagerly waiting for scraps from the Christmas table. But while the holidays bring happiness, they also pose hidden dangers for pets.

As a veterinarian I see a spike in emergency visits every December. Most of these cases are preventable. Here’s what you need to know to keep your pet safe and healthy this silly season.

The temptation of the table

Christmas feasts are irresistible for humans and dogs alike, but many festive foods can be toxic or harmful to pets. Here’s the ones to avoid:

• Chocolate: A classic culprit, chocolate contains theobromine, which dogs cannot metabolise effectively.

• Christmas ham: While it may be tempting, fatty or rich meats and trimmings can trigger pancreatitis, a painful and potentially life-threatening condition.

• Cooked bones: Chicken or ham bones can splinter causing choking or internal injuries.

• Grapes and raisins: Found in Christmas pudding, fruitcake and mince pies, these can lead to kidney failure in dogs.

• Onions: Common in stuffing, seasoning and gravy, they can damage red blood cells and can cause anaemia.

• Drugs and alcohol: Whether it’s spilled wine or rum-filled custard or desserts, alcohol is extremely dangerous for dogs. Keep all substances securely out of reach.

If you want to treat your dog, stick to pet-safe snacks or plain lean cooked meat without seasoning.

Deck the halls, safely

Tinsel, ribbons, ornaments and other decorations are tempting toys for curious cats or dogs but can cause intestinal blockages if swallowed.

I have seen cats calling the emergency room home over the holidays after requiring surgery to remove long lengths of tinsel.

Electrical cords for lights pose a risk of burns or electrocution. Keep these out of reach and supervise your pet around the tree. You know your pets’ behaviours best. Baby gates and fencing can also be good tools to keep your pets out of trouble and at a safe distance.

Fireworks and fright: preparing for New Year's Eve

Fireworks during New Year's Eve can be frightening for pets especially dogs, triggering panic, escape attempts and even injury. Their hearing is extremely sensitive as they can detect frequencies that are inaudible to humans. This makes the loud bangs feel intense, overwhelming and seem closer than what they are. The noises and flashes of fireworks happen suddenly and without warning, unlike storms that give subtle clues before they arrive. This unpredictability can often lead to fear and anxiety.

Here’s how to help your pet cope:

• Create a safe space: Set up a quiet room with familiar bedding and toys. Close windows and curtains to muffle sound and block flashes of colour and light.
   
• Keep microchip details up to date: Panic can lead to dogs bolting so make sure your details are current so your dog can be identified quickly if they run off.
   
• Consider professional help: For severe cases, speak to your vet about anxiety aids or medication well before the big night.

Emergency preparedness

Despite our best efforts, accidents happen. Know the location and holiday hours of your nearest emergency vet clinic. Keep important numbers handy and act quickly if your dog shows signs of distress such as vomiting, lethargy or difficulty breathing.

Christmas should be a time of joy for every member of the family including those with paws. By being mindful of festive hazards, you can ensure your pets stay safe and happy and avoid an unplanned trip to the vet.