Caring For Your Pet At Christmas
Christmas treats can soon turn to tragedy when it comes to your pets. It may feel like one long party to us, but don’t forget that a change to the normal routine can be upsetting to many pets.
Make sure that your dog cannot reach your chocolate Christmas tree decorations or presents. Chocolate contains Theobromine, which is very poisonous to dogs, and the darker the chocolate, the more poisonous it is. If you suspect your dog has eaten chocolate, take him straight to the vet. Dogs should NEVER be given human choc!
Other types of Christmas decorations can be equally hazardous make sure your glass baubles cannot be brushed off and smashed by a careless tail, and if your curious cats are likely to climb your tree, decorate accordingly with robust ornaments that can’t be broken. Young animals may well be attracted to anything shiny, noisy, moving or different Christmas decorations don’t make good chew toys!
NEVER, EVER give pets as Christmas presents. If somebody really wants a pet, they will be prepared to wait until the time is right, and do what is best for the new animal. Most rescue charities will not re-home during the Christmas period, despite an influx of animals either thrown out to make way for this year’s new pet, or because the owner can’t be bothered to find suitable boarding accommodation while they go skiing. Puppies and kittens especially need routine, so wait for a quieter time of year to bring one into the home. A fun alternative to pets as presents why not sponsor a dog through the Dog’s Trust? Or even something more exotic with Whipsnade Zoo?
Fireworks can be a big problem around New Year, and terrify most animals. Be prepared: if you can, bring rabbits and guinea pigs into a garage or shed. Make sure cats and dogs are safely inside before the bangs start, with a loud radio or television on. If your pet reacts very badly, Bach Rescue Remedy or a DAP (dog appeasing pheromone) diffuser may help consult your vet for advice.
A dog may not be for Christmas, but Christmas is certainly for dogs and cats, rabbits, in fact all your pets!
Don’t forget the four-legged members on the family when you are doing your Christmas shopping, as most pet manufacturers now make a wide range of festive treats, toys and selection packs.
