As the decorations go up, Pet Insurance Australia has some top tips to keep your pets safe this Christmas.
“It’s getting to that time of year again,” Nadia Crighton from Pet Insurance Australia says. “As the Christmas trees go up, so does our pets’ chances of getting accidentally injured in all the celebrations.”Here's a simple checklist of things to watch out for...
Tip #1 - O, Christmas Tree!
“It’s not uncommon to hear of dogs getting into trouble after ingesting Christmas decorations and gifts,” Crighton says. “If you have a pet that is partial to playing with the baubles or tinsel, it’s a good idea to section off your Christmas tree or pop the decorations up higher and out of reach.”
“Cats can also be a little adventurous when it comes to the Christmas tree,” Crighton says. “Most will just play with the hanging ornaments, while others may attempt to climb the entire tree.” If you are concerned that your cat may become injured, discouraging your cat from playing around the tree is recommended.
- possible tummy upsets after drinking stagnant Christmas tree water (it can be a breeding ground for bacteria).
- electrocution is a risk if your pooch starts chewing the Christmas tree lights.
- injury to the gut if glass ornaments are eaten from the tree.
- tinsel and other decorations can cause an obstruction of the gut when eaten, resulting in the need for surgery.
- gift wrappings aren't good for your pet's health, so after unwrapping the presents, quickly clean up any plastic, ribbons and bows that could strangle or be swallowed by your pet.
- eating pine tree needles - whilst not toxic - can cause irritation to the gut and a very upset tummy.
Tip #2 - Foods & Treats Toxic for Dogs
Many dogs also present to veterinary clinics with stomach complaints over the festive season.
“It’s imperative that pet owners remind their guests about the foods that are toxic to dogs and cats and keep these out of reach at all times,” Crighton warns. “If you cannot supervise your pet during celebrations, it’s best to pop them into a safe room away from any dangers.”
Common problematic Christmas foods:
- Chocolate
- Alcoholic beverages - This is a no-brainer really but there is NO safe amount of alcohol for your dog to have. Effects will range from depression, difficulty walking, slow breathing, collapse and even possibly loss of life.
- Macadamia Nuts
- Walnuts
- Stone fruit pips (no fruit platters!)
- Sweets containing Xylitol
- Rawhide Treats / Toys - Rawhide is not a by-product of the meat industry. Rawhide is a by-product of the leather industry! It cannot be made without bleach and glue. If that wasn't bad enough, they regularly cause intestinal blockages, poisoning from chemical residue and choking!
- Corn cobs
- Chewing gum
- Dried vine fruits (sultanas, raisins, grapes etc. which means no plum pudding or Christmas cake!)
- Avocados
- Fatty foods (e.g. stuffing)
“Skewers from the family BBQ can also wreak havoc on your pet during Christmas celebrations,” Crighton says. “Keeping plates out of reach and correctly disposed of leftovers in a rubbish bin with a secure lid is important.”
Tip #3 - Overindulgence
Be careful at BBQs - don’t let your dog be fed treats from the BBQ or leftovers from friends' plates. If you can’t ensure your guests will be restrained and not give in to your pleading dog's big lovely eyes, then you are better off to have your dog restrained safely either in the house or elsewhere.
You need to take control here on behalf of your pooch, because really, would they ever say no?
Tip #5 - Getting Dogs through Noise Phobia
Nobody knows your pets better than you do. Always observe your best friends closely and look for the subtle signs that they are unhappy or worried, and take action.
Create safe spaces
For dogs, this may be behind baby gates, puppy pens, crates or
within a room. For cats, provide areas where they can get up high and hide if
needed and make sure they have multiple escape options. Think about an outside
enclosure for some outside chill out time.
Keeping them safe around visitors
Your pets may be used to your family, but additional new
people, young children, noises and situations can be scary to your pet. In
fear, they may feel trapped and this can lead to bites. Delta Dog Safe has
great information at www.deltadogsafetas.org.au/resources/for-parents.
Remember all interactions between children and dogs need to be supervised and it
needs to be ACTIVE supervision.
Many toys contain small plastic (squeakers!), rubber or metal parts that, if eaten by a dog, can cause choking and dangerous gastrointestinal blockage, requiring immediate surgery.
Make sure their microchip details are up to date and they
have their collars and tags on. Take an up to date photo and keep on your phone
in case they go missing." adds Sarah Campbell, PPGA President.
Have a safe and very merry Christmas!
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