Vet issues 'toxic' warning to dog owners over Christmas dinner staple

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Make sure your pooch stays safe this festive period (stock photo) (Image: Getty Images)
Make sure your pooch stays safe this festive period (stock photo) (Image: Getty Images)

Our furry friends love to join in on the festive fun.

If you have a pooch of your own, you know how hard it is to deny them the leftovers of your Christmas roast - especially when they sit their patiently with their big googly eyes looking all innocent. However, there are certain items that should never be given to a dog.

Experts have issued a warning over a common festive dinner staple that could make your pup poorly. Turns out many of us are guilty of this, with research showing that 67 per cent of Brits share at least one toxic food with their pets over the festive period.

Pet insurance experts over at Animal Friends Pet Insurance recently surveyed Brits after monthly toxic ingestion claims peaked in December last year - with Christmas Eve seeing the most claims in the whole year, followed closely by Christmas Day.

Director of Clinical Operations at Joii Pet Care Dr Sam Webster has stepped in to make your dog stays safe and well this Christmas. The expert says pigs in blankets should strictly be kept on the table for humans - as they could lead to 'pet obesity and pancreatitis'.

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"As much as your pup might beg for a meaty treat, it's best to avoid giving them these," the expert said. "Instead, stick to unseasoned lean meat such as chicken or turkey."

Vet issues 'toxic' warning to dog owners over Christmas dinner staplePigs in blankets should stay on the table this Christmas (Getty Images/iStockphoto)

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Other festive foods that shouldn't be put into your dog's food bowl include gravy and Yorkshire puddings due to their high salt and fat content, as well as Mince pies and Christmas puddings. "Raisins, sultanas and grapes are extremely toxic for dogs and must always be avoided - even small amounts can be dangerous," Dr Sam added.

Stuffing is another side dish which may taste amazing but can be difficult to digest for dogs - especially older dogs with heart disease. It often contains onions too which is a big no for pooches.

"Bulb vegetables such as onions and garlic are toxic for dogs, very small amounts may not cause issues but should always be avoided to be safe," the expert said - pointing out that alcohol, chocolate, cured meat, smoked salmon, nuts, cheese, cream, sweets, sauces, and potatoes with added salt or butter/ oil should be avoided.

What do you feed you dog on Christmas day? Let us know in the comments section below

Liam Gilliver

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