Please note we will be closed on bank holiday Monday, click here for more information on how to access our services. Please note our out of hours care is now supported by Medivet in Watford.

We wish you and your pets a very happy festive period. With lots to think about it can be easy to forget the risks that are associated with Christmas and our pets. Most of the risks are present all year round, however, we do see an increase in pets eating hazards materials or foods. Our guide below covers the main hazards that are encountered during the festive period.

What are the hazards to pets during Christmas?

General Christmas hazards include:

  • christmas tree pine needles
  • tinsel
  • glass baubles
  • fairy lights
  • salt dough ornaments
  • gifts under the tree (if contain hazardous foods)
  • batteries
  • silica gel (found inside packaging)
  • Potpourri,
  • lilies
  • ivy
  • mistletoe.

Food hazards include:

  • chocolate
  • mince pies
  • artificial sweeteners (which can be found in cakes or desserts) xylitol is one of the hazardous sweeteners that is found in cakes and chewing gum
  • roast potatoes
  • sausages
  • stuffing
  • onions
  • cheese (especially blue types)
  • grapes
  • crisps
  • christmas cake
  • sultanas
  • pigs in blankets
  • gravy
  • cooked bones
  • nuts.

We hope that you shouldn't need us during the festive period, however, if your pet does happen to ingest any of the listed hazards, please contact your practice where the team can assist you in the next steps that need to be taken.

We wish you a happy and healthy festive season. 

Chess Veterinary Clinic Surgeries

Rickmansworth Surgery 97 Uxbridge Road Rickmansworth Hertfordshire WD3 7DJ
Opening Hours Mon - Fri: 8.00am - 8.00pm Sat: 9.00am - 6.00pm Sun & Bank Hols: Closed
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Chorleywood Surgery 1B New Parade Chorleywood Rickmansworth Hertfordshire WD3 5NJ
Opening Hours Mon & Fri: 9.00am - 7.00pm Tue - Thur: 9.00am - 5.00pm Sat: Closed Sun & Bank Hols: Closed
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