What to do if your dog needs the vet on Christmas Day

Taking your dog to the vet on Christmas Day is usually something all dog owners hope to avoid, yet emergencies can happen unexpectedly. Christmas Day is one of the busiest days for veterinary clinics, so being prepared and informed is essential to ensure your pet receives swift and appropriate care in an emergency.

Emergency vet care on Christmas may vary between clinics, with some practices operating different protocols compared to their usual out-of-hours services. This guide provides key advice on how to manage a dog emergency on Christmas Day and how to plan ahead.

1. Always Contact the Clinic in Advance, Don’t Just Turn Up

If you determine your dog needs veterinary attention on Christmas Day, resist the urge to rush straight to the clinic without warning. Always phone ahead to the usual number of your dog's veterinary practice. Arriving without notice risks encountering closed clinics, insufficient staff, or the need to be redirected to an alternative emergency service.

Calling first allows the clinic to prepare for your dog’s arrival, which can speed up treatment. Be calm and clear when explaining your dog's symptoms; you might be initially connected to a call centre or receive a recorded message directing you to the appropriate emergency provider.

2. Be Ready to Note Alternative Contact Numbers or Locations

Many veterinary clinics use professional emergency veterinary call centres during Christmas to triage cases and coordinate care. When you call, have a pen and paper handy to record alternative contact details or instructions given by the advisor, such as a different clinic's contact information or where to bring your dog for treatment.

3. Arrange Safe Transport if You Can’t Drive

Christmas celebrations may mean that someone in your household is unfit to drive due to alcohol consumption. In this case, you should plan alternative transport options. It’s wise to save numbers of taxi companies known to operate on Christmas and that accept pets for emergencies, as spontaneous pet transport options may be limited.

4. Seek Free Vet Advice If Unsure About Emergency

If you are uncertain whether your dog's condition requires immediate veterinary attention or can wait a couple days, always call your local vet practice for free advice. This service is available even on bank holidays. Listening to professional advice can help you decide the best course of action without unnecessary stress.

5. Plan Ahead If You’re Away From Home

If you will be away from your dog’s usual vet at Christmas, research and make a note of veterinary emergency services in your destination area. Ask your own vet for a copy of your dog’s medical history to take with you, as this helps any new vet provide fast, informed treatment.

If your vet is part of a larger group or chain with clinics nearby your destination, these are often your best option since they can easily access your dog’s records without delays.

Remember: Keep Your Dog Safe and Supervised over Christmas

Christmas Day presents unique risks for dogs, from festive decorations to food hazards. Keep your dog supervised and safe to minimise the chance of emergencies arising.

By preparing ahead and knowing how to respond calmly and proactively if your dog needs emergency care on Christmas Day, you help safeguard your pet’s health and wellbeing during the holiday season.

Related Questions

Can you give dogs Calpol?

Quick Answer: It is not safe to give dogs Calpol unless prescribed and dosed by a vet, as it contains paracetamol and sometimes xylitol, both potentially harmful to dogs.

Calpol is a human medicine containing paracetamol (acetaminophen), which can cause serious liver and kidney damage or death in dogs if used incorrectly. Some forms contain xylitol, a sweetener highly toxic to dogs. Never give Calpol to your dog without veterinary advice. If your dog accidentally ingests Calpol, contact your veterinarian immediately for guidance. Always consult a vet before using any pain relief for pets.