BVA highlights seasonal pet hazards
The British Veterinary Association (BVA) is urging pet owners to be aware of unknown hazards and poisons around the home during the Christmas season.
Earlier in December, numerous animal welfare organisations, including BVA, urged a supermarket to remove its advertisement that showed a child feeding a dog Christmas pudding.
This has led the association to highlight the common seasonal hazards to pets.
"Christmas pudding, Christmas cake and mince pies - because they contain raisins or sultanas - are potentially harmful to pets and in some cases can lead to kidney failure," said the BVA.
"There are several other substances toxic to pets which are found in the home during the Christmas period. Chocolate is one of the most common causes of poisoning, especially in dogs, but it is also toxic to other species, for example cats, rodents and rabbits."
It continues: "As well as raisins and sultanas, other hazardous items include grapes; sweets and liquorice which are often given as Christmas gifts; onions and garlic, so beware of onion gravy and sage and onion stuffing; unshelled nuts and turkey bones can become stuck in the digestive system; Blu-tack used to put up cards and decorations; and antifreeze, which is often used in the winter months, so remember to mop up any spillages."
BVA adds that electrical cables powering Christmas lights, wrapping and bows from presents, small toys, and batteries can all be very dangerous if chewed.
Peter Jones, BVA president, said: "Our message to pet owners is to forget festive food for four-legged friends and don’t ruin your Christmas through carelessness. The loss or illness of a family pet is devastating but poisoning in the home can be easily avoided."
The association adds that owners should double check their vet's holiday opening hours and emergency cover provision just in case.
In addition, BVA's charity, Animal Welfare Foundation, has produced a leaflet titled Pets as Poisons, which explains dangerous household and garden substances to pets.
Veterinary practices are being urged to help owners safely dispose of any unused and expired pet medicines - not just antibiotics - during November's Animal Medicines Amnesty. 
