Pets are not purrfect presents

Athlone Animal Welfare is warning people that pets are not the purrfect Christmas present and has advised people not to give pets for Christmas.
The festive period is actually a very bad time to introduce a new pet into your household! Unlike new toys, puppies and kittens require constant attention, they need food, water, shelter, playtime…and lots of TLC.
Pets can often be forgotten in the excitement of Christmas, so instead of introducing a new cat or dog to your home at this busy time, get all the things your new pet would need and consider giving a rescue pet a new home after the festive season. In addition, pet toys, bedding and feedbowls would be so much easier for Santa to deliver!
For those of you that have pets, it can be a stressful time of year for them too with extra visitors and strange new foods, plants and decorations about the house! So here’s some tips to help you keep your furry friends safe over the holiday period. Most pet related Christmas dangers are easy to avoid and some common ones are listed below:

- Fallen Christmas tree needles are very sharp and can easily get stuck in your pet’s paws or throat. Sweep tree needles up regularly or fence off your Christmas tree to separate your pet and tree.
- Do not hang your chocolates from your Christmas tree: they are highly toxic and your pet will be tempted if he can see and smell them.
- Avoid giving your pet alcoholic drinks; chocolate, coffee, salt, mouldy or spoiled foods, chicken or turkey bones (can splinter and puncture gut).
- Cover up electric cords and flashing tree lights so your pet can’t chew them and electrocute themselves.
- Remove all tags from cords, try to prevent dangling of cords and if necessary be sure that pets are well supervised while the lights are on.
- Try using fairy lights that don’t flash as some pets when up close can get very scared by these.
- Christmas tree decorations can cause a nasty accident or be fatal to your pet. Cats, and young pets especially, will show a great interest in decorations hanging from your tree. Try to use unbreakable decorations and nothing too small. Avoid tinsel or ribbons as these are dangerous to the gastrointestinal tract if your pet swallows them. If you suspect your pet of swallowing such like we would strongly advise to consult your vet.
- Make sure your tree is well anchored so your pet can’t pull it over.
- Poinsettias, holly, mistletoe, lilies and yew tree are poisonous to pets and must be kept well out of reach.
- Remember loud noises will panic your pet, such as Christmas crackers, poppers, balloons, and champagne bottles.
- Consider having a quiet spot for your pet in the home in case the house gets busy. Pets can find large crowds of people and noise distressing so if they feel overwhelmed, a quiet spot gives them refuge. Also ensure your pet has an ID tag in case your pet gets out.
- Remove your Christmas wrapping paper (and toys) from the floor to avoid your pet chewing or swallowing it.
- For your pet’s safety this Christmas always buy your pet’s presents from a reputable pet shop or veterinary clinic.
- Check your local veterinary surgery’s opening hours over the Christmas period and have their phone number to hand just in case you need it.