Dogs Tips at Christmas

Twas the night before Christmas, the decor filled the house, Not Santa’s team pawing, but a four-legged louse

Seeking Yuletide mischief and hazardous fun, Man’s best friend on a holiday quest had begun!

Yes my canine friends, this Christmas brings, Wondrous hazards for you to chew. Tinsel and plants, and turkey bones too! Stockings strewn about, begging to be ripped, Or thoroughly gnawed and chewed.

The candles beckon to play, With perils of tipping astray!

Sweet treats left low they can munch, Unlocked doors lead to winter’s harsh punch.

Never mind Scrooge, dogs seek thrills, you see, Ingesting what they shouldn’t, very foolishly!

But do not fear, right here we tell, how protecting your pooch will make seasons joyous and swell!

Tips come your way, on this you can bet, To help avoid all the risks your dog might face, So your Christmas at home stays fresh, fa la la la la, fa la la la!

Christmas Tree

• Anchor your tree so it doesn’t tip over on your dog
• Use a pen around the tree especially for puppies
• Avoid leaving edible pressies wrapped under the tree as dogs can sniff our the yummy chocolate
• Keep fragile ornaments and edible treats towards the top where your dog can’t reach.
• Avoid accessible tinsel and ribbons if your dog or puppy enjoys chewing. These can be tempting for dogs to eat, but they can cause intestinal blockages if swallowed.
• Tape down or cover any loose cords to lights that they may be tempted to chew.

Foods toxic to dogs

• Chocolate – Chocolate contains theobromine and caffeine, which are both toxic to dogs. This includes chocolate candy, fudge, brownies, cocoa powder etc.
• Xylitol – An artificial sweetener found in many candies, baked goods, and chewing gum. Can cause a rapid drop in blood sugar and liver failure in dogs.
• Macadamia nuts – Contain unknown toxins that can result in weakness, vomiting, hyperthermia and other bad effects in dogs.
• Grapes and raisins – Can cause kidney failure and be fatal even in small quantities.
• Onions and garlic – Contain compounds that damage red blood cells leading to anemia in dogs
• Alcoholic drinks – Can cause dangerous intoxications leading to vomiting, diarrhea, seizures and respiratory issues.
• Cooked bones – Can easily splinter and cause obstructions or lacerations of the digestive tract.
• Nutmeg – An ingredient in some holiday baking that can cause seizures, tremors and central nervous system issues in dogs.

Extra Christmas Tips

• Monitor lit candles. Don’t leave burning candles or wax warmers unattended. Extinguish any flames before leaving home.
• Secure chemicals like ice melt and antifreeze. Make sure these are tightly sealed in a place your dog can’t access as they are highly toxic.
• Watch guests entering/exiting. With extra visitors, make sure your dog doesn’t accidentally dart outside. Keep them leashed or inside when answering the door.
• Feed dogs before your meals and give them an activity to occupy them and prevent begging
• Exercise dogs before parties or gatherings. A long walk can prevent anxious or destructive behaviour from pent up energy. Provide a quiet space for them to relax too.
• ID your dog. Make sure they are microchipped and have ID tags on their collar in case they slip out.   
• Keep toxic plants out of your dogs reach including Poinsettias, Holly, Mistletoe and Lilies.

Merry Christmas from Els K9 solutions