Do not over indulge your pets this Christmas

Cooked bones, nuts, onions, chocolate, overly fatty food, alcohol, tinsel and even Christmas lights should definitely be out of the diet of pets this Christmas, according to the Australian Veterinary Association (AVA).

AVA President, NSW, Dr Debbie Neutze advises that all of these things can be the cause of an unwanted visit to an animal emergency hospital this Christmas.

“Cooked bones that are swallowed can tear a dog’s internal organs.

“We advise pet owners to firmly secure all leftover scraps, so that dogs cannot scavenge them from rubbish bins. Cooked turkey bones are of particular concern at this time of year,” Dr Neutze said.

“There are a range of other foods people may not be aware of that can be toxic to pets, including onion, which can be fed to dogs as an ingredient in stuffing.

“Dogs should also not be fed nuts. Even a small number of macadamias given to dogs can cause weakness or paralysis,” she said.

“Large amounts of chocolate can be poisonous to pets, and excessively fatty foods in Christmas leftovers can lead to pancreatitis.

“Small animals are more susceptible to alcohol poisoning than humans, and what may start off as a joke can end in a visit to the animal hospital.

“Another potential hazard for inquisitive pups and kittens is Christmas decorations.

“We encourage owners of young animals, in particular, to keep them away from tinsel and other decorations on the Christmas tree,” Dr Neutze said.

“Pet owners who feel their animals are showing signs of over indulgence are advised to take their pet to the veterinarian as soon as possible.

“Finally, remember too, that cats and dogs should never be given as an unexpected present for anyone.”