Warning for dog owners over Christmas period as rate of poisonings increase

Dog owners have been warned to take precautions over the festive period as eating mince pies, choking on decorations and stealing Christmas snacks could cause fatalities.

Dog daycare company, Dog Tales Club, based in Clapham Road, Stockwell, are advising pet owners this Christmas on how to keep their dogs relaxed and safe so everyone enjoys the festivities.

Lauren Hill, manager of the Dog Tales Club, said: “Foods to be careful of and are toxic to dogs include Mince Pies, Christmas puddings, fruit cakes and stollen which all contain dried fruits and sometimes alcohol.”

According to the pet insurance company Agria, pets are 75 per cent more likely to be poisoned in December than any other month – and this is a trend that has increased over the past six years. 

Ms Hill said: “The cocoa content of chocolate or chocolate cake is toxic to dogs and must never be given as a treat or snack as even the smallest amounts can sometimes prove fatal. 

“Onions and leeks are also toxic to dogs and if in any part of your Christmas dinner, it’s best to not give any titbits from the table.”

Athus Tegani and his business partner, Veridiana Fernandes, opened Dog Tales Club in April 2021. 

Mr Tegani said: “Before Christmas, we suggest that you introduce your dog to lots of visitors so they do not become stressed and anxious on Christmas Day itself. 

“Introduce decorations into the house gradually and avoid using natural decorations such as real pine trees, Poinsettia, Holly and Mistletoe as these are toxic and harmful to dogs. 

“Keep your dogs supervised around the Christmas tree as the decorations can be a choking hazard and you want to avoid your dogs chewing through the tree light wires.

“Try to keep the routine as normal as possible on Christmas Day by walking your dog and involving them in activities in a calm way. 

“We recommend that you always provide a safe place for your dog where they can relax and retreat to when they want to take themselves away from the noise.”

(Pictured top: Dog Tales Club)