The holidays have arrived!
This time of year is such a festive season, with Christmas tree’s going up, lights everywhere, delicious food and drink to be consumed. And although this time of year is for-giving, what you think is tasty and delicious could be harmful to your pet.
We’ve put a list of holiday-themed items that can be toxic to your pet. Remember, if you think your pet has ingested any of the following and you are worried about your pets health contact your Vet.
Christmas pudding, mince pies (raisins/sultanas/currants)
A great way to finish off the Christmas feast. However, raisins and other such dried grape foods are extremely toxic to pets and can cause severe kidney failure.
Chocolate
As much as your dog begs for this sweet treat, it can be extremely harmful to pets. Chocolate contains a stimulant called ‘Theobromine’ which is toxic to dogs and can even cause kidney failure. The darker the chocolate, the higher the content of theobromine present.
Onions (Sage and Onion stuffing)
Onions and other allium species cooked or uncooked can cause your pet to start vomiting. On top of this, if eaten in large quantities, this can cause damage to the red blood cells. So no sage and onion stuffing balls for them.
Alcohol
As with humans, the consumption of alcohol can have the same effect on our pets. They can become disoriented, wobbly and drowsy. The effects could see the pet having low blood sugar. Be sure to keep the drink out of reach of your pet, as they may be tempted to lap a bit up.
Nuts
Macadamia nuts and black walnuts contain a toxin that can affect your dog’s muscles and nervous system resulting in weakness, swollen limbs and panting.
Mistletoe
Kisses under the mistletoe, how Christmassy. However, ingestion of the berries can cause your pets to have an upset stomach.
Are there any leftovers I can give to my pet?
Of course! They can enjoy a titbit feast too. The below are fine to give to your pet providing they have no allergies to any of the below. Just ensure that all items are fully cooked and deboned before giving to your pet.
- Sweet Potato
- Turkey meat (no bones)
- Lamb meat (no bones)
- Salmon (fillets or cooked in spring water are preferable to smoked salmon)
- Brussel sprouts (warning, this can have the same flatulence effects as humans, this time you can blame it on the dog)
- Peas
- Carrots
- Parsnips
- Green beans
- Swede
The information provided above is to help prevent poisoning by raising awareness. If you suspect your dog has ingested any toxins, seek veterinary help immediately.
