How to keep your dog healthy and safe at Christmas

The festive season is a joyous time, but it can also present unique challenges to keeping your dog healthy and safe. Being aware of potential hazards and planning ahead will help you protect your canine companion and enjoy the celebrations worry-free. This guide provides essential advice on preventing common Christmas dangers, managing your dog's wellbeing during the holidays, and preparing for unforeseen emergencies.

1. Understand toxic and harmful Christmas foods

Many festive treats and foods can be toxic to dogs. Avoid giving your dog chocolate, raisins, sultanas, onions, garlic, chives, nuts, cooked bones, or anything containing artificial sweeteners like xylitol. These can cause severe health issues including vomiting, diarrhoea, seizures, or even life-threatening conditions.

If you wish to share treats, stick to safe options such as small amounts of plain, cooked turkey (boneless and skinless), steamed vegetables like green beans and carrots, or plain mashed potatoes without butter or seasoning. Dog-specific treats are always the safest choice and help maintain a balanced diet during the festive season.

Keeping toxic items out of reach, such as carefully storing Christmas pudding, chocolates, and mince pies, is vital to prevent accidental ingestion.

2. Create a safe and comfortable environment

Decorations, wrapping paper, ribbons, and festive plants like holly, mistletoe, and lilies pose risks for choking, poisoning, or injury. Ensure these are securely out of your dog's reach.

Provide a designated "safe zone" where your dog can retreat quietly if the celebrations become overwhelming. This familiar space should have their bed, water, toys, and be away from loud noises or crowds. Gradually decorating can also help reduce stress during the lead-up to Christmas.

3. Maintain your dog’s routine

Dogs thrive on consistency, so aim to keep feeding, walking, and sleeping schedules regular even amidst the holiday bustle. Changes in routine can increase anxiety and stress, so retaining normality offers reassurance and wellbeing.

4. Check your dog’s health and vaccinations before Christmas

If you notice any health concerns in the weeks leading up to Christmas, consult your vet promptly. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent emergencies during times when veterinary access might be limited.

Ensure vaccinations and parasite prevention treatments are up to date, especially if you plan to board your dog or visit other homes during the festive period.

5. Prepare for veterinary emergencies over Christmas

Many veterinary clinics reduce services or close on public holidays. Check your own veterinary practice’s out-of-hours arrangements well in advance. Some may transfer emergencies to nearby centres, which could mean travelling further for urgent care.

Keep your vet’s emergency contact details handy, and if needed, listen to answerphone messages which often provide holiday emergency info. Knowing where to turn immediately can make a crucial difference in an emergency.

6. Plan transport options for emergencies

Consider how you would get your dog to a vet during Christmas, especially if drivers in your household are drinking. Identify local taxi services operating over the holidays or arrange for a designated driver amongst family or friends to ensure you have safe, reliable transportation in an emergency.

7. Review your pet insurance benefits

Many pet insurance policies offer 24-hour access to online veterinary helplines staffed by qualified vets and nurses. Check your policy for such services and understand how to contact them if concerns arise during the festive period.

Pet insurance can provide peace of mind by helping cover unexpected health costs and offering veterinary advice when your usual vet is unavailable.

Common questions about Christmas pet safety

What foods are most dangerous for dogs at Christmas?

Quick Answer: Chocolate, raisins, sultanas, onions, garlic, nuts, cooked bones, and foods containing xylitol are toxic to dogs and must be avoided.

These ingredients frequently appear in traditional Christmas treats like mince pies, Christmas pudding, and chocolates. Even small amounts can cause severe poisoning symptoms, so it's essential to keep them well out of reach and never feed them to your dog.

How can I find emergency veterinary care over Christmas in the UK?

Quick Answer: Check your usual vet’s website or call them before Christmas to learn about out-of-hours services and the nearest emergency clinics operating during the holidays.

Many practices redirect emergencies to larger centres outside regular hours. Having this information in advance, plus emergency contact numbers programmed into your phone, ensures prompt veterinary care if your dog falls ill or has an accident.

Can I give my dog Christmas dinner?

Quick Answer: You can offer small amounts of plain, cooked turkey (without bones or skin) and steamed vegetables, but avoid fatty, seasoned, or rich foods.

Human festive meals often contain ingredients harmful to dogs such as garlic, onions, and high fats. Feeding dog-appropriate Christmas treats helps your pet enjoy the season safely without upsetting their digestion.

Should I change my dog’s routine at Christmas?

Quick Answer: No, maintaining your dog’s usual feeding, exercise, and rest schedule provides comfort and reduces stress during the busy holiday period.

Sudden changes can trigger anxiety and behavioural issues. Keeping consistent routines helps your dog feel secure despite extra visitors or noise at home.

Conclusion

By understanding festive hazards and preparing carefully, you ensure your dog stays healthy, happy, and safe throughout Christmas. Avoid toxic foods, secure dangerous decorations, maintain routine, and stay informed about veterinary services and emergency plans.

With these measures in place, you can relax and enjoy a joyful holiday season with your beloved pet by your side.

Responsible pet ownership means being mindful of your dog's special needs at Christmas and acting to prevent harm while enhancing their wellbeing.