There can be quite a lot happening at Christmas time and it's important to consider your pets too! The additional sounds, sights and smells of Christmas can be a sensory overload for your pet and routines can also change. Here's how to manage it all...
The first step is keeping their daily routine as close to normal as possible; feeding and exercise times, for example. Make sure your pet has somewhere they go for peace and quiet - their own bed, room or space that they can escape if they are overwhelmed.
Diet
The main area to be aware of during the Christmas period is diet changes for pets. Do not be tempted to feed pets from the table or the 'wrong' leftovers. There's up to a 40% increase in emergency calls to vets at Christmas - usually due to poisoning.
Ensure that party nibbles are not left at nose height or somewhere a dog can access them (they'll even get in to garbage bins!). Foods that can be harmful to your dog include:
Chocolate
Alcohol
Christmas cake, mince pies and pudding
Sage and onion stuffings
Some nuts, blue cheese and very fatty food
Christmas ham and high salt foods
Artificial sweeteners
Cooked bones
Exercise
Christmas holiday breaks can mean additional time with pets. This could include more exercise, playtime and company for them.
Weather
Christmas in the Southern Hemisphere can be hot. It goes without saying that it's essential to have clean, fresh and cool water for pets.
Visitors
New people coming and going through the house can be upsetting. Take time to introduce new guests, especially children.
Presents
Some people give stockings and gifts to their pets. Some cheap dog chews can be full of chemicals including glue and other toxic ingredients. Why not use the time you have to make some home-made treats for pets?!
It's also worth noting 'human toys' with batteries, small parts, silica gel packs, packaging and wrapping paper can also be a hazard for animals. Be cautious when leaving presents underneath the Christmas tree - dogs are experts in hunting out edible presents!
