Christmas time can be lovely for you, your family and friends and your dog. Probably you may have more time to spend with your dog and your dog may enjoy attention from visitors.
Also you may want to spoil your dog this Christmas. So here are some Christmas dos and don’ts to make sure everything goes smoothly.
Good Things
- Do treat your dog but with something like a new toy instead of toxic foods or obesity builders. A toy will entertain and distract your dog at what can be a stressful time, with strangers coming and going from the house.
- Put aside time to play with your dog every day during this season. Toys encourage bonding between you and your dog and the exercise benefits you both.
- Take advantage of crisp winter days and get out into the park or woods.
- You may want to treat your dog to a new dog coat.
- Another good present would be a new dog bed. These come in all shapes and sizes and at a wide range of prices. Place your dog’s new sleeping quarters away from draughts and if you have an open fire, use a fireguard.
- And, of course, we can’t not mention our Dog Hair Day Shampoo!
- Ideally, every dog would receive the amount of love and care that you give yours. Some dogs are less fortunate. Consider donating to a dog charity this Christmas. Or take extra blankets, clothing, food or toys to your local dog rescue centre.
Take Care
- Don’t leave chocolates wrapped up under the Christmas tree. Chocolate is toxic to dogs. Your dog may decide that present is for him and go on a late night rummaging exercise only to end up with serious health problems. It may sound dramatic but chocolate can kill dogs.
- Keep your dog away from the pudding! The core ingredients of Christmas pudding – dried fruit, grapes and alcohol – are toxic to dogs (and to cats too, by the way).
- Don’t let your dog chew on turkey bones as these may splinter and lacerate your dog’s throat or digestive system.
- Watch out for those decorations. To your dog they may look like toys but baubles can shatter and tinsel can choke! Keep your living room door shut at night so your dog is not tempted to play with decorations.
- When out on walks make sure that your dog does not run onto iced-over canals or lakes in case the ice cracks beneath him. Please don’t make you or your dog headline news through a tragic accident.
Finally, a Merry Christmas To You And Your Dog From All Of Us At Dog Hair Day!
DISCLAIMER: While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained here it is for educational purposes only. The writer of this article and Dog Hair Day can’t diagnose any physical, mental or behavioural condition in animals nor prescribe treatment. We urge you to consult your vet if you have any concerns about your dog.