Christmas is fast approaching, and it’s set to be the most wonderful time of the year for many families around the UK. But the festive season can pose a few additional problems for our dogs, and the change of routine and new experiences can be worrying to pups.
It’s estimated that six out of 10 households now include a canine companion, so dog welfare charity Dogs Trust has issued its top ten tips so the nation’s dogs can enjoy Christmas too.
Jenna Kiddie, Head of Canine Behaviour at Dogs Trust, explained: "As a nation of dog lovers, our four-legged friends will be a big part of Christmas for many families across the UK. But with unexpected visitors, a change to routine and endless food temptations, our canine companions can find Christmas unsettling and stressful. By following a few simple guidelines, you can make sure that your dog is kept safe and will enjoy Christmas as much as the rest of the family. The team at Dogs Trust would like to wish all our supporters and, of course, the nation’s dogs, a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.”
Here’s the crucial festive advice.
. Xmas dogs
Christmas should be a happy time for both humans and their beloved four-legged friends. Photo: Canva/Getty Images
. Keep decorations up on high
Decorations hanging on a tree are incredibly tempting toys for our canine friends, but tree decorations can be dangerous. Small decorations can be easily knocked off the tree and swallowed and broken decorations can get caught in paw pads, so make sure all decorations are well out of reach. Photo: Canva/Getty Images
. It's a wrap
Keep your dog out of the way while wrapping your presents. Not only will this stop them running away with your sellotape but will stop them eating wrapping paper, ribbon and tape, all of which can cause serious problems for your dog if swallowed, as can tinsel. Photo: Canva/Getty Images
9. Keep things quiet
Dogs have incredibly sensitive hearing so consider buying bang-free crackers and leave the party poppers off your shopping list. Christmas and New Year is a popular time for fireworks, so have a plan in place in case of any unexpected local displays. There are lots of things you can do to help your dog keep calm when fireworks go off, such as creating a safe and secure den for them to go to if they would like to. Photo: Canva/Getty Images
10. If the worst happens...
Be prepared for the worst by having your emergency vet contact details handy. Many vet surgeries will be closed on the big day but will have an emergency service in place. If the number for this service is different to your usual vet contact number, make sure you have it written down somewhere safe in case you need to call. Photo: Canva/Getty Images