What not to feed your dog at Christmas

Yep! It is tough when those big brown eyes are staring forlornly at you but as tempting as it is to share your food with your dog during the festive season, our treats can be extremely dangerous to your canine companion. Here is a list of some of the worst offenders and why they make the naughty list.

Grapes and raisins

No one knows exactly why and how these are poisonous to dogs, and the exact volume needed to cause symptoms is difficult to predict.

Christmas pudding and mince pies

These are full of currants, raisins and sultanas, which are toxic to dogs. Fat and suet can also cause severe stomach troubles, and they’re usually laced with alcohol which is also poisonous to dogs.

Chocolate

In large enough amounts, chocolate and cocoa products can lead to gastrointestinal upsets, seizures or even kill your dog. Make sure chocolate coins, decorations and presents are kept out of reach.

Bones

Cooked bones are brittle and splinter easily, which can lead to larger fragments getting ‘stuck’ causing obstructions and smaller causing gut irritation and perforation.

Don’t leave bones anywhere they can be found! Poultry is hollow-boned and the bones splinter whether raw or cooked and so must never be given to your dog under any circumstances. Turkey stuffing and gravy can also cause upset tummies.

Onions, Garlic, Chives

These can cause stomach upsets and could lead to red blood cell damage. It takes a few days for signs of poisoning to appear.

Macadamia nuts

Within 12 hours of ingestion these can cause dogs to experience weakness (especially in the hind limbs) and depression, tremors, vomiting and increased temperature lasting for 12 to 48 hours.

Fat

Ham rind or the drippings from the BBQ tray can lead to upset stomachs or pancreatitis.

If you suspect your dog has consumed any of these foods contact us immediately. The quicker treatment is sought, the easier and more successful it will be.