22/12/2025
🎄Holiday Foods and Hazards for Your Pets
With the festive season fully upon us, it's essential to be aware of what foods and items can pose risks to our furry friends. While many posts circulate about what to keep away from pets during Christmas, few explain the reasons behind these precautions. Here’s a rundown of common dangers you may encounter at home or on the dinner table.
If you suspect that your dog has consumed any of the following items, remain calm and gather any evidence before contacting your vet for guidance. It's crucial to seek professional help rather than relying on non experts or social media, as prompt action can be vital.
Here’s a quick guide to the most significant hazards:
🍫Chocolate (especially dark varieties)
Chocolate contains theobromine and caffeine, which dogs cannot metabolize effectively. This can lead to the accumulation of toxic compounds in their system, resulting in serious health issues like seizures or heart problems.
🍇Christmas Pudding, Mince Pies, and Grapes
These treats often contain currants, sultanas, and raisins, which are dangerous for dogs. Even a small amount can lead to kidney failure, and the exact cause of this toxicity remains unclear.
🧅Onions, Shallots, Leeks, and Chives
These vegetables contain N-propyl disulfide, which can cause hemolytic anemia in dogs attacking their red blood cells and posing a serious health threat. Other members of the allium family, like leeks and chives, are also harmful.
🍗Cooked Bones
While it may be tempting to share your holiday feast with your dog, cooked or smoked bones can splinter and cause choking, blockages, or internal injuries. Raw bones are generally safe for supervised dogs, but cooked bones should be repurposed for stock or broth instead.
🥜Macadamia Nuts
Though nuts might seem like a healthy snack, macadamia nuts can lead to gastrointestinal upset and contain an unknown toxin that causes weakness, tremors, and even overheating in dogs.
🧀Blue Cheese
Strong cheeses like Roquefort and Stilton are high in fat and salt, and can also contain mycotoxins that may poison dogs. It's best to keep these delicacies away from your pet.
🫗Gravy
Store-bought gravies are often loaded with fat and salt, increasing the risk of sodium poisoning or pancreatitis in dogs. Consider making a homemade bone broth as a healthier alternative.
🍾Alcohol
Alcohol is highly toxic to dogs, so it's essential to keep holiday drinks out of their reach.
🍬Xylitol
A common sugar substitute found in many foods, xylitol is safe for humans but can be deadly for dogs. It causes a rapid insulin release, leading to dangerously low blood sugar levels and potential liver damage.
🎄Toxic Plants
Certain festive plants like holly, ivy, poinsettia, mistletoe, and even Christmas tree needles can be harmful to pets. While symptoms are often mild, such as vomiting or diarrhea, it’s best to avoid any potential risks.
🔋Batteries and Small Choking Hazards
Dogs, much like children, are curious and may ingest small objects, leading to choking, blockages and even death. Keep batteries and other small items out of their reach during the holiday chaos.
❌Rawhide
Rawhide treats can be dangerous due to chemicals and risks of choking or blockages. It’s best to dispose of these entirely.
Always remember to reach out to your vet if you think your dog may have ingested any of these harmful items. Keeping your pet safe during the holidays is a top priority! 🐾
Anna Shaw
