Spare a thought for the waggy ones this Christmas
A while ago there was the ‘A dog is not just for Christmas’ campaign which was to get people to stop buying dogs for Christmas. This is still a very important campaign that still needs to have attention this time of the year. There are also other things we should consider when it comes to our waggy ones and the Christmas season. Here are a few points that you should think about.
- Keep your decorations safe. Dogs not only can get tangled up but also chew electrical leads, make sure you keep them out of the way this Christmas and make sure your tree also has a weight on it to prevent bouncing dog disasters.
- Crackers and dogs don’t mix. Whilst we all may understand what the noise is from crackers and fireworks, dogs don’t. Whilst some may be fine others are not. Barley we know will not have a great night on New Years eve as she is scared of fireworks, Dillon on the other hand doesn’t have any issues with them. Spare a thought for those sounds that you accept as OK but could scare your dog. Also be aware of the little presents in crackers that can fly out and easily be gobbled up by a waggy one.
- Human food doesn’t equal dog food. We all over indulge over Christmas, but that doesn’t mean you should also over indulge your dog. A lot of the Christmas food just isn’t good for dogs. You are the control over what your dog eats and remember to keep boxes of chocolates and other foods that can actually harm dogs, out of reach. Whilst a little Christmas chew treat is fine it’s not fine to server them a full Christmas dinner.
- Don’t ignore them with your celebrations. Why not go for a dog walk after Christmas dinner? Make sure there is time for them in your day. They are your family so should be just as important a part of the Christmas celebrations.
- Clean up wrapping paper and packaging. Make sure any little bits of string, ribbon or packaging is cleared up - it’s so easy for a dog to choke or eat something they shouldn’t. Whilst you are unwrapping your gifts why not give your dog a chew so they are happy and out of the way - nothing like trying to open a present with a dog in the way.
Above all have a great Christmas and enjoy the time off with your waggy ones.