Dog owners are being warned of unexpected dangers facing their beloved pets this Christmas.
As December 25 draws closer, many of us will be buying special food for the big day, as well as festive plants, and wrapping paper. But a number of things we associate with Christmas can pose a danger to our dogs and other animals.
While Christmas can be a magical time to spend with your pets, seasonal treats, tempting decorations and Christmas get togethers mean it can also be a stressful and even dangerous time for them.
READ MORE: Dog who waited three years for 'someone to fall in love with him' gets new home for Christmas
Dr Samantha Butler-Davies, from Vets4Pets, has shared her tips for how to keep furry friends safe and happy over the holiday season, including making sure dogs are not given any bones from the turkey.
This is because small bones can splinter off and cause serious issues like getting stuck in your pet’s intestines, so you should never allow your pet to chew on them.
Dr Butler-Davies also suggests keeping an eye on sweet treats and other foods and drinks, as with more freedom to roam unsupervised during the busy festivities, it’s not unusual for cats, dogs and rabbits to find themselves accidentally eating something that is harmful to them.
Some of the most popular foods and drink at Christmas such as chocolate, macadamia nuts, sultanas, raisins and alcohol are all poisonous to pets, so make sure you put edible gifts safely out of the way.
And if you suspect your pet may have eaten something poisonous, act quickly and contact your vet immediately. Don’t try and treat your pet without the help of an expert. Although there are plenty of proposed antidotes and home remedies online, many of these may cause more harm than good, so it’s essential that you always get the advice of a veterinary expert first.
Similarly, festive plants such as mistletoe, poinsettias, holly and pine sap are all poisonous to cats and dogs. Try to keep these well out of reach, and regularly clean up fallen tree needles so that they don’t get ingested or stuck in paws.
Receive newsletters with the latest news, sport and what's on updates from the Liverpool ECHO by signing up here
READ NEXT:
New Portugal travel warning as Foreign Office advice changes
Strictly Come Dancing fans emotional by Gemma Atkinson's reaction after Gorka's 'risque' routine
TUI passengers told mid-air Manchester flight has to land in Tenerife
DWP full list of money being paid out at Christmas 2022 to help with bills and food
Emmerdale's Dominic Brunt lifts lid on real relationship with Chas Dingle star
