Christmas preparations are in full swing. Our minds are running in over time thinking about gifts we need to buy, who’s coming and have we forgotten anyone, what food to prepare and so on. It’s such an exciting time of year but in all the craziness we often forget about the furry member of the family. So we’ve outlined some potential hazards to avoid and great ideas to ensure they have a great Christmas too.

Fatal Attractions

One of the biggest dangers during the holidays season is Christmas decorations. Christmas tree decorations and lights, while beautiful to look at, are just as alluring to your dog. Dogs may chew on globes or shiny decorations causing lacerated gums and throats, or they may ingest small pieces resulting in digestive issues. Also be sure to take proper steps to prevent the tree from falling over by ensuring it has a stable base. Electrical wiring is also a major hazard. Tape it to the floor to avoid your dog chewing on it or create a barrier between it and your dog.

Family and friends may gift you festive flowers or perhaps you have ordered a gorgeous floral center piece for the dining table. Just be aware that some flowers and plants are toxic to dogs. Holly, Mistletoe, Lilies, Poimsettia can be fatal if ingested. It’s best to keep these well away from your dog and perhaps suggest your florist use other flowers.

It’s not all fun and games

Christmas is a time to catch up with family we haven’t see in awhile. The home is full of lots of chatter, noise, kids running around, and to your dog…a lot of new faces too. While most dogs enjoy all the new attention, many find this overwhelming and extremely stressful. To keep them calm be sure to tell guests, especially children, to give them some space. Also ensure that their safe place, such as their bed, is somewhere quiet that they can go if they are feeling anxious. 

If you know your dog gets overstimulated when there are lots of people around, take them for a walk before guests arrive to reduce their energy levels and anxiety.

Death by chocolate

Prevention is better than cure. And since the majority of holiday illnesses in pets is food related, be mindful of what you’re exposing your dog to over the festive season.

A Christmas celebration wouldn’t be complete without some sort of chocolate treat. However, this is one of the most harmful foods your dog can come in contact with. This is also the case with sugar and artificial sweeteners. These treats can cause vomiting, loss of coordination, seizures and in severe cases, liver failure and death. Instead, have some healthy dog treats readily available. Anything with natural ingredients is best, and you can easily make them yourself. There’s literally hundreds of recipes available online, or have them delivered straight to your door from businesses like Pure Paws Bakery.

Other harmful foods include raisins, grapes, currants, sultanas, macadamia and walnuts, onions and garlic. This also means avoiding stuffings and gravy as they often include onions.

Give a dog a bone, right?…Wrong! Especially cooked bones. Shards break off causing blockages when ingested which may require surgery or damage can be fatal. 

Finally, be mindful of over-treating your dog with food scraps and left overs. This may seem like a nice gesture, but too many new additions to your dogs diet can lead to an upset tummy. Suddenly that good will gesture doesn’t seem so good.

Give them what they deserve

Now that you and your dog are prepared for the holiday season, express how much you love them by giving them the luxury they deserve. View our range or select from one of our exclusive Gift Boxes.

At Molly Barker, we love to offer designer dog accessories to indulge your pets. Find the perfect gift in our online boutique. You can also get in touch for ideas and inspiration.