Dogs At Christmas
Our Dogs at Christmas also have a magical time. But while we indulge in festive feasts, it’s important to remember that not all of our favourite treats are safe for our furry friends. Dogs rely on us to keep them healthy and safe, and one of the best ways to do this is by avoiding certain foods during the holiday season.
At Shire Pest Solutions, we care about every member of your family, including the four-legged ones. Read on to learn what foods to avoid giving your dogs this Christmas, as well as tips for keeping them safe and healthy.
Top Christmas Foods to Avoid for Dogs
Toxic Ingredients
- Chocolate: Contains theobromine, which can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, seizures, or worse. Dark chocolate is the most dangerous.
- Grapes and Raisins: Found in mince pies and fruitcakes, these can cause kidney failure in dogs, even in small amounts.
- Xylitol: A sugar substitute that can cause low blood sugar, seizures, and liver failure in dogs.
- Caffeine: Found in tea, coffee, and desserts. Can cause increased heart rate, tremors, and hyperactivity.
Dangerous Leftovers
- Cooked Bones: Can splinter and cause choking or internal injuries. Stick to raw, unseasoned bones if supervised.
- Fatty Foods: Gravy, turkey skin, and bacon can trigger pancreatitis in dogs.
- Onions, Garlic, and Chives: Found in stuffing and gravies; these can damage red blood cells and lead to anaemia.
- Alcohol: Extremely dangerous for dogs, causing vomiting, difficulty breathing, or even coma.
- Macadamia Nuts: Can cause tremors, weakness, and vomiting. Avoid salted or flavoured nuts entirely.
- Salty Snacks: Crisps and salted nuts can cause sodium poisoning, leading to vomiting, tremors, or seizures.
How to Keep Your Dog Safe This Christmas
- Set Boundaries: Teach your dog to stay out of the kitchen and dining areas.
- Educate Guests: Remind family and friends not to feed your dog table scraps.
- Secure Your Rubbish: Keep bins secure and out of your dog’s reach.
- Prepare Dog-Friendly Treats: Offer safe alternatives like plain cooked turkey, carrots, or green beans.
- Keep Food Out of Reach: Store food on counters or tables your dog can’t access.
Dog-Safe Christmas Recipes
Make Christmas extra special for your dog with these simple recipes:
- Frozen Peanut Butter Treats: Blend plain yoghurt (lactose-free, if needed), mashed banana, and xylitol-free peanut butter. Freeze in festive silicone moulds.
- Baked Christmas Biscuits: Mix wholemeal flour, unsweetened applesauce, and an egg. Roll out and cut into shapes with cookie cutters. Bake at 180°C for 15–20 minutes.
A Safe Christmas for All
Christmas is about celebrating with those you love, and that includes your pets. By being mindful of what foods to keep away from your dog, you can help them avoid unnecessary pain or illness.
At Shire Pest Solutions, we care about the wellbeing of every family member, including your furry companions. May your dogs have a safe Christmas filled with tail wags and happy memories!
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From all of us at Shire Pest Solutions, have a wonderful festive season!