The festive season is a time to spend with family and friends. This often means gathering around the table to share food. 
Whether it’s leftovers from Christmas dinner, or a special treat for your furry friend, now is the perfect time to remind pet owners to be careful about what they feed their pets.
There are a number of common foods that can cause potentially fatal health complications for your pet.
Common foods that are dangerous for your pets
Alcohol, foods containing alcohol and fermented foods – these can lead to lack of coordination (walking or standing up), drowsiness, a slow breathing rate, excessive urination, vomiting or unresponsiveness, and seizures.
Avocados – they contain a dangerous toxin which can damage the heart, lungs and tissue of many different animals.
Chocolate – may be toxic or lethal to dogs and other domestic animals, even in small quantities.
Grapes and Raisins – can cause severe acute kidney failure.
Macadamia Nuts – they can be toxic to dogs. Symptoms will likely occur within 12 hours and can include vomiting, hyperthermia and elevated heart rate.
Onions and Garlic – can cause gastric irritation and anaemia if they consumed in large quantities.
Turkey skin, pork crackling, sausages and other fatty meats – can lead to pancreatitis due to the high fat content.
Good Christmas foods for dogs
A big juicy bone is a simple but classic Christmas treat. Dogs should be supervised when they’re given these tasty treats.
Bones must be raw and cooked bones should be avoided as they can splinter and cause choking / a lot of pain and damage.
Safety tip:
Remember to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling any kind of dog food, cat food and pet treats.