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Best dog food for digestive problems

Pet expert warns Brits against THESE common diet foods that are deadly for dogs - including grapes and nuts

Your Pets Daily Editor — Thu, 15 Feb 2024 16:00:00 +0000

A pet expert has revealed which diet-friendly food items prove deadly to dogs, as many pet owners have resolved to eat healthier in the new year - and may not know how their new diet will affect their furry friend.

Pet business insurance specialists Protectivity warn that many foods recommended as healthy alternatives to fatty snacks may prove deadly for dogs, including grapes, raisins, macadamia nuts, onions, garlic, xylitol (found in chewing gum), and dairy products.

The experts said: "This time of year can be full of hazards for pets as owners juggle festive leftovers and changes to their diet - especially if they resolved to eat healthier in the new year. The best way to prevent accidents is by educating yourself on which items are toxic, keeping them out of the way."

According to the experts, risky ingredients that may be prominent in a New Year's diet include:

Grapes and raisins - Grapes and raisins are naturally a low-calorie, nutrient-dense, fat-free snack for those aiming to eat healthier, but few people know they are toxic to dogs. Grapes and raisins can cause canine kidney failure, even in small amounts.

Macadamia nuts - These can be eaten raw and roasted, proving a popular pre-gym snack for diet-conscious Brits looking for a quick and easy energy boost. However, they can cause weakness, vomiting and hypothermia in dogs.

Onions and garlic - Onions and garlic are staples for adding flavour to healthy dishes but are toxic for dogs in all forms (whether powdered, raw, dehydrated, or cooked). They can destroy a dog's red blood cells and lead to anaemia.

Xylitol (chewing gum) - People trying to eat healthier are often encouraged to consume gum to curb cravings, but when consumed by dogs, it can cause a rapid insulin increase that, in turn, can lead to hypoglycaemia.

Dairy products - Incorporating healthy dairy into your diet, including yoghurt, low-fat cheese, and milk, is a great source of protein and calcium. However, many dogs are lactose intolerant and will experience digestive problems if they consume dairy.

As well as identifying the common diet foods to look out for, the experts also reveal which festive leftovers prove dangerous for dogs - including turkey, which can cause pancreatitis due to being difficult for dogs to digest, and Christmas pudding that contains raisins.

Commenting on the dangers, a Protectivity spokesperson says: "As well as keeping problem foods out of reach, it's also key to set boundaries with your dog so that your pet knows what's expected of them. These boundaries aren't limited to dog owners but anyone who works around them, such as dog groomers or dog walkers.

"It can be tempting to indulge our four-legged friends when there's so much excess food left over from the festive period, but these actions can have dangerous consequences. And while you may be aiming to improve your eating habits this year. It's important to remember that food that is healthy for you isn't always good for them."

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Dog Owners Warned About Storing Dog Food Incorrectly - Leading To Vomiting and Seizures! Expert Comments

Katie Court — Sun, 04 Feb 2024 12:00:00 +0000

Making a mistake when storing your dog's food can lead to your dog becoming unwell, and a trip to the vet. Improper storage of dog food can lead to mould, bacteria and mites infiltrating your pets food, which can lead to vomiting and illness in dogs.

Dog experts at Kennel Store have warned of the dangers of incorrectly storing dog food, and how to properly store it, and highlighted the symptoms of mould poisoning in dogs.

“Similar to storing our food, dog food can also spoil, therefore needs to be stored properly.

Here’s what you need to know about dog food storage

Buy a bag that can be used with 30 days to prevent rancid fats and free radicals
Store dry food in an airtight container. Use up all of the food before refilling it as the fat and crumbs can build up, causing the food to go bad
Wash the container between bags to prevent cross contamination, and mould growth

How to safely store dog food

Make sure the bag is firmly sealed

If the bag can't be sealed, move the dog food to an airtight container. Make sure the lid fits tightly on the container to keep out air, moisture, and pests.

Keep in a cool, dry place

Heat and humidity can cause food's nutritious value to decline, and also encourage the growth of bacteria and mould. Select a dry, cool place to store such as a cupboard, out of direct sunlight.

Steer clear of direct sunlight

This can cause the fats in dog food to go rancid and lose the nutritional value. Use plaster containers made from food-grade plastic, or keep the food in a shaded place for storage.

Follow the principle of "first in, first out"

Put the newest bags of food at the back and move the older ones to the front. By doing this, you can guarantee that the oldest food is consumed first, preserving freshness.

Look out for signs of spoilt food

Regularly check the dog food for indications of mould, discolouration, strange smells, or potential insect infestations. You should throw away the food immediately if you do see any of these symptoms.

Signs of mould ingestion in dogs

Vomiting
Diarrhoea
Disorientation
Restlessness
Tremors
Jaundiced appearance (icterus)
Seizures
High fever (hyperthermia)
Abdominal pain

If you are concerned your dog has eaten food that has become mouldy, it’s important they see a vet quickly for the appropriate care and to prevent illness from worsening.”

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Best dog food for digestive problems

How to keep children and dogs playing safely

Your Pets Daily Editor — Sun, 28 Jan 2024 16:00:00 +0000

Dogs are an integral part of millions of families across the UK. In fact, our nation has the second highest dog population in Europe (Statista). But it's important to remember how to incorporate them into our families safely. Children and their pets can build strong, lasting bonds that will be cherished for years to come, but — especially with young children and toddlers — we should handle dogs carefully and remember that they can be unpredictable.

To help you protect your little ones as best you can, child safety experts Safetots have shared their top tips on how your family can play safely with dogs.

Maintaining boundaries

The most important thing to remember when you have young children and dogs is maintaining clear boundaries. No matter how well-trained or calm you feel your four-legged friend may be, you can never fully guarantee their reaction to a small child. So, especially in the early stages of their life, you should always keep your child's nursery or bedroom as an off-limit zone.

Be sure to use standard stairgates, or versatile gates designed for pets and children alike, to keep your dog out of their nursery. This can give you peace of mind as a parent, allowing you to maintain full control over their interactions and never leave them together unsupervised. Play pens can also a be great way to ensure your little ones are protected while your dog has free movement or indoor playtime in your downstairs rooms.

Other important boundaries are making sure your dog never licks your baby or toddler, as this can be unsafe and unhygienic. Similarly, never let your pets eat off your child's plate — in fact, it's best to keep their mealtimes at separate times and in separate rooms so your dog doesn't associate your children's dinnertime with their own. If you've crate-trained your dog, this can also be a good way to give them their own space away from your children's play area, which can often be noisy and overwhelming for your furry friend.

Training and reinforcement

If you already have a dog and are planning to start a family, it's wise to start training them as soon as possible. Create a command such as 'Gently!' which they learn to associate with being careful, and practice this by having them slowly and softly take treats from your hands. Reward this with lots of positive reinforcement, such as hugs, walks, and playing with their favourite toy. When they start to associate this behaviour with positive things, test out their training on an adult visitor in your home. If they still understand the command and know how to be gentle, your pup is more likely to respond to your instruction when meeting children in the future.

Similarly, if your dog has the habit of jumping up at people, now is an important time to correct this behaviour. Not only are some adults not comfortable with this, but larger dogs also run the risk of knocking children over and hurting them, even if they just want to play. As most parents can confirm, it's much better to train your dog now, before you have little ones to run around after!

Teaching children dog-friendly behaviour

Although training your dog is of course the priority, children should also be taught how to play with dogs safely and responsibly. As well as never leaving them alone with your pet unsupervised, it's important that your little ones know what is acceptable and what isn't. For example, while young children can be curious and eager to interact with new things, explain to them that tugging the dog's tail, ears, or climbing on them can hurt the animal and isn't allowed. Even if your dog is well-socialised with children and normally of a quiet disposition, this may cause them to react instinctively, growling at your youngster or even biting them.

Instead, show your children how to approach your dog gently and carefully, and most importantly to leave them alone when they are in their crate, eating, sleeping, or playing with a favourite toy. This is when dogs can feel the most possessive of their space, meaning they could lash out at your child without meaning to.

Playing with older children

When your kids grow up, they can start form a closer relationship with your dog and may even become firm friends. Pets can be a great way to teach your children about responsibility and caring for others. However, you should still supervise their playtime, and make sure your pup still remembers their command to play gently. Often, involving your children in training the dog or teaching them tricks can be a better option than rough and tumble play with toys, and this can also strengthen their bond in the future.

Peter Boast, Managing Director at Safetots comments:

"It's important to remember that no matter how placid and playful a dog may be, you can never guarantee their reaction to a small child. So, when first introducing your children to a dog, do so at a distance and never leave them alone. While dogs may be seen as the primary safety risk, children also need to be taught how to play gently with pets so as not to accidentally hurt them and provoke a reaction.

"Especially with babies or toddlers, dogs can be suspicious of this new arrival or even get jealous over having to share your attention. In these early stages, you should always keep your dog and child separate by using stairgates and safety barriers, so that they can't wander into the nursery or bedroom. When your kids get older, they can start building more of a relationship with your dog, but it's wise to still supervise their playtime so you can make sure that everyone is safe and sound."

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Keeping kids safe around dogs

Experts Way In On Christmas Selection Boxes for Dogs & How Safe They Actually Are

Jessica Curtis — Sun, 17 Dec 2023 20:00:00 +0000

With many UK retailers advertising selection boxes for dogs, Kennel Store has weighed in on the most dangerous dog treats and the risks they pose to your beloved pet.

"We all love treating our dogs and giving them a tasty treat every once in a while and especially at Christmas, but it's important to be mindful of what exactly we're giving them. We've compiled a list of treats that pose risks and hazards for your pet and the issues your dog could come in contact with if they're consuming such chews and treats."

Actual animal bones

Whilst animal bones are often marketed and advised to dog owners as suitable treats, they can be incredibly dangerous. They can be contaminated with bacteria that can be extremely harmful, and cause illnesses such as listeria, salmonella and e.coli. It's also important to be aware of the risk of the bones breaking into smaller segments. This can lead to your dog choking and damage to the intestines.

Rawhide

Rawhide chews are very popular, but they can be dangerous because of the toxic chemicals they can contain. Rawhide commonly comes from cows, and is the soft inner layer of the animal.

Whilst it is treated and preserved, they can still cause a choking hazard, and be the cause of digestive obstructions which can be fatal.

Dental chews

Dental chews are very popular, but the ingredients list is not ideal. Flours, additives and salt are just some of the ingredients that chews can contain, and they pose no real benefit to dogs. An alternative to dental chews are meaty bones or recreational bones and brushing your dog's teeth daily.

Human food

As tempting as it can be to give your dog a little taste of what you're eating, it can be fatal for dogs to ingest human food. Some foods that can't be given to dogs are:

Chocolate
Grapes
Nuts
Avocado
Garlic, onion and chives

If your dog does eat something that is toxic, it's important to contact your vet and get medical advice immediately to avoid sickness or worse."

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Christmas selection boxes for dogs

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dog health

£5,000 fines for driving with dogs

Tom Stone — Fri, 08 Dec 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Motorists are being warned to take precautions when travelling with their dog in order to avoid accidents and large penalties.

Experts from Quotezone.co.uk have urged pet owners to make sure their pets are suitably restrained while driving. Motorists failing to do so can face fines of up to £5,000 and nine penalty points on their licence.

The Highway Code states dogs must be restrained with a seat belt harness, pet carrier, dog cage or dog guard, so they cannot distract the driver or cause injuries to themselves or others in the car. In the worst case scenario, if there's a car crash and the airbags activate, then it may cause serious injuries to the dog if they've been left to roam free in the vehicle.

Drivers breaching the rule are deemed to be driving carelessly which means that they can be hit with three to nine penalty points and receive a fine of £1,000 that can go up to £5,000 if taken to court.

Quotezone.co.uk CEO and Founder Greg Wilson said: "In addition to avoiding financial penalties, it's critical to know the rules of the road in order to keep everyone safe. Although many motorists perceive nothing wrong with letting their four-legged companions roam freely inside the vehicle and stick their heads out the window, doing so can actually endanger the pup's life. Every pet owner must make sure their pup is well looked after and restrained appropriately when travelling in a car, obeying the rules of the Highway Code, or risk invalidating both their car and pet insurance – leaving them unprotected should they need to make a claim."

Here are Quotezone.co.uk's tips on how to safely travel in the car with a dog:

Be secure

The safest way to restrain dogs is to use a crate, travel harness, carrier or a boot gate/dog guard. Dog owners can choose a solution that's most suitable for their pet and install it to the vehicle.

Switch off the passenger airbag if the dog is in the front seat

Dogs are allowed to sit in the front, however it means that the passenger airbag must be turned off and the seat should be moved back as far as possible.

Don't feed the dog just before or during the drive

Pet owners should leave a gap of at least two hours between feeding their dog and going for a drive, otherwise there may be a lot of cleaning up to do if the dog gets motion sickness.

Pack plenty of water

It's important to keep your pooch hydrated along the journey. A good idea is to get a non-spill water bowl so the dog has access to water throughout the drive.

Take regular stops on long trips

Plan your journey so you have extra time to have stops along the way to go for walks and get some fresh air. These stops are especially important when the weather gets warmer, as dogs have a harder time adjusting to heat.

Don't leave the dog in a hot car

Never leave your dog unattended in a car on a warm day, as it can cause them suffering and harm. Even with the windows open, they can quickly become dehydrated or experience heatstroke.

Don't let your dog hang out the window

Although pups seem to love the fresh air, it's incredibly dangerous to let dogs put their head out the window of a moving car, as well as wind damage to eyes and ears and a risk of getting hit by flying debris, there's also a chance of hitting unexpected items outside the car.

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Keeping dogs safe while travelling

Highway Code

From Mince Pies to Leftovers: 7 Festive Foods That You Should Never Feed Your Dog

Jessica Curtis — Thu, 07 Dec 2023 20:00:00 +0000

Whether you like gifting your dog their own wrapped-up presents, dressing them up in a cute festive bow tie or preparing them their own Christmas dinner, if your four-legged friend is having a good time, it really can make the festive period feel perfect.

But while we tuck into our delicious turkey dinners and selection boxes, it's important to remind ourselves that not every Christmas treat is designed to be suitable for our dogs.

Pet food company tails.com warns that there are a number of festive dishes that you should not share with your pooch, no matter how eager they are to have a bite. The nutritional experts share advice on what to do if your dog has eaten any of them.

Chocolate

While selection boxes and assortment trays are fun festive treats for us humans, chocolate is highly toxic for dogs as they are physically incapable of metabolising it.

Chocolate can cause your dog to experience an increased heart rate and it can also cause unwanted stress on your furry-friends kidneys and nervous system.

If your dog eats even a small amount of chocolate, you should arrange an immediate appointment with your veterinarian, and in the meantime monitor their behaviour very closely for any symptoms or sickness.

Mince Pies

Mince pies are packed full of dried fruits such as sultanas, raisins, currants and grapes which can be extremely toxic for your dog. Even small amounts of these kinds of fruits can lead to severe kidney failure in your pooch.

Christmas Pudding

Much like mince pies, Christmas puddings are full of dried fruits that can be toxic for your dog. An added danger of the Christmas staple is that they also often contain alcohol, making this dessert even more harmful for your canine companion.

It might seem like common sense to most dog owners, but giving your dog alcohol is never ok, and It goes without saying that any food containing spirits, beer or wine, should not be given to your dog either.

Long-abandoned Leftovers

We know that our pups love to sniff out forgotten scraps days after Christmas has passed. But when food gets left for too long it can become a breeding ground for mould and bacteria, with bread, meat and dairy products being particularly susceptible.

If you plan on keeping any leftovers, make sure to keep them out of reach from your pet and no longer than 24 hours or the recommended amount of time on the product's packaging.

Skin and Bones

While it is fine to feed your dog small portions of leftover turkey, it is important to keep your pooch away from the skin and bones of the bird.

Turkeys skin is far too fatty for your pooch and eating greasy foods like this can lead to pancreatic issues and obesity, especially in smaller dogs.

Not only that, but meat bones are a potential choking hazard for your dog and can cause internal damage to their organs, as they are too hard to digest properly.

Onions, Garlic, Shallots and Leeks

While onions, garlic, shallots and leeks are tasty for us humans on Christmas day, they all belong to the allium plant family, which are poisonous to dogs.

Foods like onions and garlic contain a chemical compound called thiosulfate which can be toxic for dogs as it causes damage to their red blood cells and can result in them becoming anaemic.

Nuts

Nuts are a popular festive treat, but they can be extremely harmful to your dog as a lot of them are fatty. Even small amounts can cause your pooch to experience diarrhoea, vomiting and weakness in their hind legs, or in the worst-case scenario may even lead to pancreatitis.

If your dog has consumed a large number of nuts and appears to be showing symptoms, then you are advised to seek veterinary attention as soon as possible.

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Keeping dogs safe at Christmas

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Christmas foods dogs can't eat

Protect your dog from these 7 poisonous plants

Tom Stone — Thu, 07 Dec 2023 11:35:57 +0000

Pet owners are being warned to avoid common poisonous plants their dogs may encounter while out on walkies.

Experts from Quotezone are advising people to steer clear of dangerous plants which pose a significant threat to their four-legged friends. This warning comes after a number of reports of pets feeling ill after ingesting ragwort in a park in Hucknall. Ragwort is a common daisy-like weed which can cause severe poisoning for dogs and can even be fatal in more extreme cases.

To protect dogs during nature walks, it's crucial to be aware of these common plants that can be harmful to our four-legged friends. Innocent-looking plants, such as bluebells, hogweed and azaleas can lead to a range of health issues, from gastrointestinal distress to severe heart problems. Dog owners are being urged to familiarise themselves with poisonous plants, keep their dogs on the lead and supervise their pets when venturing into nature.

Typical signs of poisoning for dogs include drooling, pale gums, lethargy, vomiting, diarrhoea, rash and seizures. Small dogs and puppies are at greater risk of getting poisoned because even if they ingest a small amount of a toxic plant, it can lead to significant harm. If you suspect that your dog has eaten a toxic plant, it is essential to contact a veterinarian or animal poisoning hotline immediately to aid their recovery.

Pet insurance comparison expert at Quotezone.co.uk, Helen Rolph said: "When out on walkies, whether it's in a park, in the countryside or forest, it's important to be vigilant and make sure that your dog doesn't ingest anything toxic. Our four-legged friends are naturally curious, so it's our responsibility to keep them safe from the potential dangers during outdoor adventures. Every dog owner should read up on the range of toxic plants for dogs that can be commonly encountered in their area, some are quite surprising.

"Although you may want to let your dog roam free, choose your off lead spot wisely and if you're unsure of any surrounding plants, best keep them on the lead. If you have any concerns about your furry friend, most pet insurance providers now have a 24/7 vet helpline – it's worth checking if your insurance has this and storing the number in your phone in case of emergencies."

The team at Quotezone has compiled a checklist of seven common plants that are poisonous to dogs:

Bluebells

Bluebells are considered poisonous to dogs because they contain toxic compounds known as glycosides. These toxins can be found throughout the plant, including the leaves, stems, flowers, and bulbs. Bluebells have a distinctive appearance, with violet bulbs and a narrow bell shape.

Autumn crocus

Autumn crocuses are highly toxic to dogs due to the presence of colchicine which is extremely potent and can have severe and potentially lethal effects on dogs. Colchicine poisoning can occur when your dog ingests any part of the autumn crocus plant. Autumn crocuses have large, fragrant bulbs that are usually light pink or purple.

Azalea

Azaleas contain grayanotoxins which can disturb the function of dogs' nerve and muscle cells. The main symptoms of Azalea poisoning are abnormal heart rhythms, tremors and low blood pressure. Azalea shrubs have colourful funnel-shaped flowers.

Ivy

Ivy can be poisonous to dogs if ingested and can also cause a rash if it comes in contact with skin. This is because it contains toxic chemicals called saponins as well as polyacetylene compounds. Although the symptoms are usually not life-threatening they can still cause serious health issues such as an upset stomach and skin and mouth irritation. Ivy has glossy, heart or arrow-shaped leaves.

Foxglove

Despite its beautiful appearance with colourful trumpet-shape blooms, you should never let your dog go near a foxglove plant. Foxglove is highly toxic to dogs, causing nausea, seizures, tremors, and can even lead to death. Fortunately foxgloves are very tall, growing up to 5 feet, so they're easy for dog owners to notice.

Cotoneaster

Cotoneaster is a common evergreen shrub with bright red berries. Although cotoneaster is considered to be slightly poisonous to dogs, if they ingest a large quantity of cotoneaster berries or leaves then it can cause gastrointestinal issues such as severe stomach pain and diarrhoea.

Giant hogweed

The most significant danger from giant hogweed comes from skin contact with the plant's sap and subsequent exposure to sunlight, causing severe burns and blisters. If the sap gets into your dog's eyes it can even cause blindness. Giant hogweed has an umbrella-shaped head with white flowers and can grow up to almost 15 feet tall.

For a whole range of pet insurance products such as cat, older dog and puppy insurance Quotezone can help.

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Vet reveals how to SAFELY share your Christmas dinner with your dog

Jessica Curtis — Mon, 04 Dec 2023 20:00:00 +0000

With the exciting Christmas festivities swiftly approaching, it's important to remember our four-legged friends who are just as keen to get involved, especially with all the amazing smells swirling around!

Your traditional Christmas dinner is usually made up of a satisfying mix of high-quality meat, vegetables and carbohydrates. But which of these delicious foods are dog-friendly and can be given to our pets as part of their Christmas meal?

Thankfully, Dr Linda Simon, the in-house Veterinary Surgeon at Pooch & Mutt, is here to dissect which components of a human Christmas meal are safe to feed our furry friends or how these can otherwise be prepared to avoid any ailments.

Read on for a vet-approved guide to serving a canine-safe Christmas dinner to your dog - so you can indulge them in some tasty festive fare without regretting it later.

To avoid a sick dog, here's Dr Linda Simon's lowdown on each specific Christmas dinner element.

"Christmas Day should be an exciting time for all members of the family, including your pooch! But as tempting as it is to treat them to a Christmas dinner of their own, it's essential to make sure their sensitive stomachs can handle certain ingredients and avoid any potentially fatal foods".

Can dogs eat roast turkey or roast chicken?

The meat is the main event at Christmas, and your dog will definitely be keen for some. Feed them lean, white meat that doesn't contain bones, avoiding the darker meat, which will be harder for them to digest.

Importantly - avoid heavily seasoned skin, as it's high in fat which could trigger pancreatitis in some dogs. If you wrap your Christmas turkey in bacon, be sure to avoid that too as this is also incredibly fatty and salty and can also cause upset to our pooches' pancreas.

Can dogs eat pigs in blankets?

Similarly to the bacon-wrapped turkey, no matter how much they might love them, sadly dogs can't have pigs in blankets - those dinky sausages wrapped in bacon.

Ideally, pork products should only be fed to your pooch in the form of treats specifically made for dogs.

Can dogs eat stuffing?

Avoid adding stuffing to your Christmas doggy bowl. Though delicious, stuffing contains a lot of fats as well as garlic and onions - both of which can wreak havoc with your dog's stomach and even cause anaemia.

What kind of potatoes can dogs eat?

Dogs can eat potatoes in moderation, but roast potatoes are slightly too fatty for their delicate gut.

When cooking up the roast, boil some potatoes or perhaps mash a small amount on the side without added salt or butter.

Just make sure it's not the main component of the meal, as starchy foods are hard for a dog to digest. Take up space with veggies instead.

Can dogs eat brussel sprouts?

We're not sure about their owners, but dogs can definitely eat a brussel sprout or two. Steam or boil your sprouts and perhaps chop them up, with no added salt, oil or butter for seasoning.

Can dogs eat parsnips?

Parsnips are fine for dogs to eat, raw or cooked. If cooking them make sure they're boiled and don't come with any glaze, oil, butter or salt. Serve them chopped or mashed.

Can dogs eat swede?

Yes, they're fine raw or cooked, so long as you boil them and serve chopped or mashed without any glaze, oil, butter or salt.

Can dogs eat broccoli?

Yep! Broccoli is a fantastic dog food at any time of year - just serve it up steamed or boiled with no extra salt or oil.

Can dogs eat gravy?

No, most human gravy is very high in fat and salt, and is just too rich for your hungry pooch.

It could also contain onions and garlic, which is another no-no. If you've made the gravy yourself and know exactly what ingredients have been used, a small amount might be ok - but err on the side of caution.

Can dogs eat cranberry sauce?

A small dollop of cranberry sauce is ok for a dog to eat, but check the label.

If it contains grapes or raisins it should definitely be avoided. You should also ensure that it is sugar-free, as if not, it may contain artificial sweeteners such as xylitol which are lethal to dogs.

Can dogs eat Christmas pudding or Christmas cake?

It's a no for dogs and Christmas desserts.

Traditional Christmas pudding and Christmas cake are usually packed with raisins, alcohol, chocolate and strong flavourings.

Grapes and raisins are toxic to a dog's kidneys, so it's safer to avoid these sweet festive treats altogether. Remember, dogs don't really have a sweet tooth.

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Dogs at Christmas

Festive dos and don’ts – how your pets can have a pawsome Christmas!

Jessica Curtis — Sun, 03 Dec 2023 20:00:00 +0000

As the season to be merry is well underway, we want to spend time with our nearest and dearest, including our not-so-secret favourites of the family, our beloved pets. However, it is easy to forget the risks Christmas can pose to our furry friends in the run-up to the big day. From pesky sticky tape to toxic treats, the festive season can present a world of hidden dangers.

A whopping 34% of new pet owners have declared it is their first experience of owning a pet as an adult1, and this rise in first-time pet ownership has led to an increased need for expert advice around all things pets this Christmas.

Here, Kevin Thackrah, Director of pet-care specialists, Petpals, and resident vet, Sophie Bell, offer their dos and don’ts for any pet parents to ensure this festive season is a happy and safe one for our four-legged companions.

DO – Keep decorations pet-friendly

If you are going to be decking the halls this Christmas, it is important to remember that decorations can be a hazard when left in pets’ reach. From tinsel to dangling baubles or nibbleworthy wires – pets can get up to some dangerous mischief when left unsupervised around festive décor. To keep pets safe, put decorations high up and out of reach, and avoid leaving pets unattended in a decorated room. For ever-inquisitive pets, edible ornaments like chocolate or candy canes may prove too irresistible, so choose decorations that are non-toxic to your pets to ensure they do not become ill if they ingest them.

Sophie’s expert tip:

“If your preference is a real Christmas tree, don’t forget that pine needles can be sharp on your pets’ paws and can lead to internal damage due to their sharpness if consumed, so you may need to keep your pet away if needles start to drop.”

DON’T – Overindulge them with table scraps

The Christmas dinner is one of the most-loved parts of the big day, and it can be tempting to offer those doe-eyed pets a portion at the dinner table. However, festive foods can be high in fat and cause upset stomachs in pets. Thankfully, turkey is generally a well-tolerated meat in our dogs and cats. Chicken and beef are two of the most common meats that cause allergies in our dogs so if you are going less traditional this year, be sure your pet does not have any allergies before offering them a Christmas dinner! Stock up on your furry friend’s favourite pet food ahead of the festive season and offer them a pet-friendly treat instead.

Sophie’s expert tip:

“We see many dogs in the clinic who have consumed mince pies or chocolate over Christmas, and both can cause toxicity in our dogs and cats. Mince pies contain raisins and sultanas which have the potential to cause kidney failure even if consumed in small amounts. If you are going to offer your pets any festive treats, make sure you are clued up on any that may be harmful.”

DO – Stick to pets’ normal routine

Stress can hugely impact your pet’s health. Cats for example are at an increased risk of developing urinary issues when feeling anxious. Making sure they have access to a litter tray always, even if they do go outside. A steady sniff walk is a great idea for dogs who may struggle with disruption due to festivities. Mental stimulation can release feel good hormones and help your pet to relax. There are plenty of natural calming remedies on the market which can be useful. For those who really cannot manage their stress levels, chat to your vet who will be able to help.

Sophie’s expert tip:

“All pets big and small can be sensitive to busy environments, so a place which provides solitude that escapes the commotion can keep them calm on the big day.”

DON’T – Place Christmas plants in paw’s reach

Many festive plants can have some not-so-festive side effects on our pets when ingested. While poinsettia, mistletoe, holly and ivy make the perfect decorations, they can cause our pets to become poorly so are best kept out of pets’ reach.

Sophie’s expert tip:

“Keeping festive plants in out-of-reach areas is really important, or better still – avoid them altogether and opt for some artificial, pet-friendly Christmas decorations instead.”

DO – Tidy away any present unwrapping mess

Unwrapping presents is one of the most magical parts of Christmas Day, but it is important we consider our pets during the excitement of opening gifts. Wrapping paper or discarded boxes can be a choking hazard for our pets, so tidy as you go to make sure pets are kept safe. Be careful of sticky tape as this can cause internal blockages in pets’ stomachs.

Sophie’s expert tip:

“To reduce the risk of ingestion or choking, I’d suggest keeping your pets away whilst you unwrap your gifts. If you are certain your pet will not attempt to chew or pick up any presents or wrapping, then of course they can get involved in the action. However, some inquisitive pets are notorious for grabbing everything, so it can be an avoidable vet visit!”

DON’T – Leave them at home alone

The festive season is a very busy time that sees pet owners out of the house more than usual. Whether you are out Christmas shopping, meeting up with friends for Christmas get-togethers or having a well-deserved holiday, remember, our pets deserve the love and a share of the festive fun as much as us. If you do go away this festive season, Petpals is the pet-preferred alternative to dog boarding kennels and catteries. You can leave your pets safe in the knowledge they are being looked after by Petpals staff, who are licenced, fully trained, insured and DBS checked.

Sophie’s expert tip:

“If you are popping out for some evening fun, leaving a lamp on, especially for senior animals whose night vision often diminishes with age, ensures they do not feel stressed and disorientated.”

DO – Have fun!

Include your pet in the festivities by getting them a Christmas gift. It will keep your pet busy and entertained amongst the commotion, and you will have fun too watching them discover their new toy.

Sophie’s expert tip:

“Avoid rope or material-based toys if your dog is a chewer, I have seen many a blockage caused by such toys if your dog is a chewer! Always monitor your pet when introducing new toys and/or chews and use size appropriate items to lower the risk of choking.”

Hopefully these dos and don’ts go a long way in ensuring that you and your furry friends have a stress-free, pet-friendly festive season!

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Dogs at Christmas