Christmas dangers for dogs: a complete guide

The winter holidays are a time of joy and fun, but for our four-legged friends they can be fraught with many dangers. Let's look at the most common threats that await dogs during the Christmas holidays.

HOLIDAY FOOD

The holiday table is not for our four-legged friends. Many Christmas dishes can be toxic to dogs and even deadly.

Statistics are relentless: in December, the likelihood of poisoning in dogs increases by 75%. The reason is the holiday dishes that we love so much, but which can be deadly for our four-legged friends.

LIST OF PRODUCTS that can harm a dog:

Dairy products: Lactose contained in milk is poorly digested by dogs, causing digestive disorders.

Chocolate: Contains theobromine, toxic to dogs, and a large amount of fat, which is harmful to the liver.

Sweets: Cause tooth decay, obesity, and digestive problems.

Yeast products: Provoke intestinal fermentation and painful colic.

Alcohol: Causes poisoning, damage to internal organs, and can be fatal.

Onions and garlic: Irritate the stomach lining and can cause anemia.

Grapes, raisins, currants: Can cause kidney damage.

Smoked meats and sausages: Contain a lot of salt, spices, and preservatives that are harmful to the digestive system.

Raw fish: A source of parasites and sharp bones.

Bones: Can cause constipation, damage the intestines and internal organs.

Spices and seasonings: Irritate the stomach lining and can cause ulcers.

Tea and coffee: Contain caffeine, which is harmful to the heart.

Pearl barley, mushrooms, vinegar, butter: Difficult to digest, cause digestive upset and other health problems.

Important! This list is not complete, so consult your veterinarian before giving your dog a new product.

HOLIDAY PLANTS

Do you like to decorate your home for the holidays? But did you know that many of the plants we use for decoration can be poisonous to our pets?

Plants contain various toxic substances that, if ingested by an animal, can cause serious poisoning. Symptoms can range from mild irritation of the gastrointestinal tract to more serious problems such as heart failure and even death.

LIST OF DANGEROUS PLANTS:

• Oleander: All parts of the plant are poisonous, especially the seeds. Even a small piece can cause serious poisoning.
• Poinsettia: The juice of this plant can irritate the skin and mucous membranes.
• Holly: All parts of the plant are poisonous, especially the berries.
• Yew: One of the most poisonous plants. All parts contain deadly toxins.
• Ivy: All parts of the plant are poisonous, especially the berries.
• Hyacinths, daffodils, tulips: The bulbs of these plants contain toxic alkaloids.
• Lilies: All parts of lilies are very toxic to cats, and some species can be dangerous for dogs.
• Monstera: The sap of this plant can irritate the skin and mucous membranes.
• Dieffenbachia: The sap of this plant can cause burns in the mouth and esophagus.
• Philodendron: The sap of many species of philodendron is poisonous.
• Spathiphyllum: The sap of this plant can irritate the skin and mucous membranes.
• Euphorbia: The sap of many species of euphorbia is poisonous and can cause burns.

Symptoms of poisoning from poisonous plants:
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Drooling
• Loss of appetite
• Lethargy
• Seizures
• Difficulty breathing

CHRISTMAS DECORATIONS AND GIFTS

The Christmas holidays are a time of joy for the whole family, but for our four-legged friends, it can be a real challenge. Shiny toys, bright garlands, and a variety of new smells awaken curiosity in dogs. However, many holiday decorations and gifts can be dangerous. You should be especially careful with Christmas tree decorations, batteries, wrapping paper, and small objects.

Let's take a closer look at which items can pose a threat to dogs:

• Tinsel: This is one of the most dangerous decorations. If ingested, it can cause intestinal obstruction.

• Balls: Broken glass balls can injure paws or cause cuts in the mouth. Plastic balls are also dangerous if swallowed.

• String lights: String lights can cause electric shock and internal injuries if swallowed.

• Christmas tree decorations: Small, brightly colored, shiny toys attract dogs, but can become lodged in the esophagus or intestines if swallowed.

• Ribbons, bows: Can become entangled or swallowed, causing choking or intestinal obstruction.

• Wrapping paper: Can cause gastrointestinal irritation if swallowed.

• Gift fillings: Such as foam or silica gel can cause poisoning.

• Small toys: Small toys, such as rubber duckies or balls, can become lodged in the airway.

• Batteries: Batteries can cause chemical burns to the esophagus and stomach if swallowed.

• Candles: Open flames can cause burns or fire.

• Fireworks: Loud noisesand bright flashes can cause stress and panic in dogs.

WINTER DANGERS

Expanded list of winter dangers for dogs:

1. WEATHER CONDITIONS:

Cold: Cold temperatures can lead to hypothermia, especially in small breeds and puppies.
Snow and Ice: Slipping on ice can cause injury to your dog. Snow and ice can also stick to the fur between the toes, causing discomfort and irritation.
Chemicals: Salt and other chemicals used to combat ice can cause irritation and damage to the paw pads.

2. OUTDOOR HAZARDS:

Frozen Water: Thin ice can break under the weight of your dog.
Sharp Objects: Broken glass, metal objects hidden in snow can injure paws.
Wildlife: Wild animals can be more aggressive in winter and pose a danger to dogs.

3. HEALTH PROBLEMS:

Colds: Colds and dampness contribute to the development of colds.
Frostbite: The ears, tail, and paws are most susceptible to frostbite.

How to protect your dog in winter:

Clothing: For small breeds and dogs with short hair, it is recommended to use special winter clothing.

Shoes: Dog boots will protect paws from cold, chemicals, and injuries.

Paw care: After each walk, carefully inspect and clean your dog's paws.

Shortening walks: In extreme cold, shorten the duration of walks.

Warm place: Provide your dog with a warm and dry place to rest.

Balanced nutrition: In winter, your dog needs more calories to stay warm.

TIPS for safe walks:

Choose safe places: Avoid icy areas, roads, and crowded places.
Keep your dog on a leash: This will allow you to control their behavior and avoid dangerous situations.
Be careful: Inspect the path before walking to ensure it is safe.

ANTIFREEZE

Caution should be exercised when using antifreeze, which may contain the chemical ethylene glycol, which can be fatal if ingested, and its sweet taste can make it tempting to dogs. Therefore, antifreeze should be stored in secure containers away from pets. When using antifreeze, make sure your pets are well away, and if any spills occur, make sure they are cleaned up. The effects of poisoning may initially include vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, and the dog appearing drunk (lack of coordination). An untreated poisoned dog may then appear to recover, but kidney failure may follow.

Noticed your pet eating something suspicious? Has your dog refused food, water or become inactive? Don't hesitate! Every second counts. Don't self-medicate, as this can make the situation worse. Contact your vet immediately. Remember, it's better to be safe than sorry about lost time.

Save all potential sources of poisoning (food scraps, plants, chemicals). This will help your vet make an accurate diagnosis and prescribe effective treatment.

Taking care of your dog in winter is not only a simple duty, but also an expression of love and concern for your pet. Knowing the possible winter dangers, you can ensure his safety and comfort during the cold season.

© Tatyana Lazko, co-owner of the kennel "Strider in Diversity kennel"