CHRISTMAS is a time to over indulge but be careful of what your dog is getting into, as many foods and drinks are harmful to our furry friends.
Chocolate and alcohol are perhaps the most obvious substances that are dangerous to dogs. Chocolate should not be kept within easy reach of dogs and no pet should be exposed to alcohol. Traces of either can be found in popular Christmas dishes, like fruit cake or in Christmas puddings.
Christmas puddings and fruit cake are made with a cocktail of ingredients that are not dog friendly. Raisins, grapes, and sultanas have all been linked to acute renal failure, and dogs that digest these can develop kidney failure 72 hours later.
In addition, as much as you hate to waste turkey or chicken bones, and your doggy is drooling, please, do not give cooked bones to dogs either. Other cooked bones are also dangerous, and very sharp, and can lodge in the gums.
Other toxic foods to avoid giving your dog or cat include garlic and onions, avocado, lollies or gum and peanut butter containing xylitol, macadamia nuts, too much cheese and other dairy products.
Warning signs to look out for include vomiting, diarrhoea, excessive drooling or frothing, restlessness, increased urination, tremors or seizures, or wobbling in your pet. Always take them straight to the vet or emergency pet hospital if you suspect they have snuck in a toxic treat or ingested a foreign object.
