Christmas and Your Dog: Keep Your Dog Safe This Holiday

As the festive season approaches, many families want to include their beloved pets in the celebrations. Your dog can certainly join in, whether it’s a special Christmas dinner treat, a new toy, or a cosy bed by the fire. However, veterinary practices often see an increase in pet emergencies around Christmas due to hazards and changes in routine. Ensuring your dog’s safety and wellbeing will make the holiday enjoyable for the whole family. Here are six essential tips to keep your dog safe and happy this Christmas.

1. Keep to Your Dog’s Usual Routine

Dogs thrive on consistency and predictability as it provides them with comfort and reduces anxiety. During the busy festive period, it’s easy for routines to slip. Make a conscious effort to feed your dog their meals at the usual times and maintain regular walk schedules. Avoid sudden changes in training or behaviour, as inconsistency can confuse your dog and cause stress. Even during celebrations, your dog’s routine should be a priority to help them feel secure.

2. Be Aware of Festive Household Hazards

Christmas decorations might look beautiful but can pose risks to your dog. Items such as baubles, tinsel, fairy lights, gift wrap, and tree water are tempting but potentially dangerous if chewed or swallowed. Certain festive plants like holly, mistletoe, and poinsettias are toxic to dogs and should be kept well out of reach. Consider placing your Christmas tree on a stable, high stand and keep fragile or edible decorations away from your dog’s reach to prevent accidental ingestion or injury.

3. Feed Festive Treats with Caution

It’s tempting to share leftovers or give your dog festive treats, but many human foods are unsafe for dogs. Chocolate, nuts, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, alcohol, and artificial sweeteners can be poisonous. You may give a small piece of cooked turkey (skinless and boneless) as a treat but avoid feeding your dog at the table to discourage begging behaviour. Stick to your dog’s regular balanced diet, and if you want to offer treats, choose dog-safe, vet-approved festive treats or bake special canine-friendly goodies at home.

4. Manage Visitors to Reduce Stress

Christmas often means a full house with many visitors, which can be overwhelming or stressful for your dog. Although some dogs love socialising, others may need a quiet space to retreat to, away from noise and crowd. Ensure your dog has access to a calm, secure area with their favourite bed and toys. Teach children and guests the importance of respecting your dog’s space and recognising signs of discomfort. Never leave unfamiliar children unsupervised with your dog to protect both parties.

5. Prevent Accidental Ingestion of Wrapping and Gifts

Excitement during gift unwrapping can lead dogs to ingest dangerous materials like ribbons, wrapping paper, elastic bands, or small toys. Supervise your dog closely during these times and store wrapping supplies and small objects safely out of their reach. Do not allow your dog to ‘unwrap’ their own presents – instead, present the gift to them once unwrapped to avoid choking hazards or digestive problems.

6. Make Christmas Fun for Your Dog

Christmas can be a wonderful time to strengthen your bond with your dog. Consider buying them a thoughtfully chosen gift such as an interactive toy, cosy new bed, or a festive bandana. You can also make festive dog treats or prepare a special Christmas-themed meal with ingredients safe for pets. Most importantly, include your dog in the family fun, spend quality time playing and cuddling, and keep the atmosphere stress-free and joyful for everyone.

By combining careful supervision, a well-maintained routine, and festive fun, you can ensure that your dog enjoys a safe and happy Christmas. Wishing you and your furry family member all the best this holiday season!