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Christmas Pet Warning: Gravy, Stuffing and Bones Drive Holiday ER Visits, Vets Say

Fresh data highlights hidden toxins in festive plates, prompting urgent advice on food safety.

Overview

  • A ManyPets poll of 2,000 UK owners found gravy and stuffing are now the most common triggers for canine vet trips in December.
  • Dogs Trust issued a seasonal alert citing Petplan data showing a 49% rise in grape and raisin poisoning claims versus chocolate this year.
  • Clinicians warn cooked bones, fatty meats and turkey skin can splinter or provoke pancreatitis, while xylitol, onions, garlic and some nuts remain highly toxic.
  • Hospitals report a holiday surge in gastrointestinal cases and foreign-body surgeries, with decorations, batteries and barbecue skewers also implicated.
  • Vets urge prevention through secure food storage, guest briefings and a quiet retreat for pets, noting emergency bills can run £251–£1,000 and advising owners to check holiday vet availability.