Overview
- Clinics in Geelong describe December as one of their busiest periods, with preventable emergencies rising alongside a rush for pre-boarding vaccinations and parasite protection.
- Common festive foods including chocolate, xylitol, grapes and raisins, and fatty meats are linked to poisoning, stomach upsets and pancreatitis in pets.
- Tinsel, ribbons, baubles and batteries create choking and obstruction risks that can require emergency surgery, and some scented candles or essential oils trigger reactions.
- Southern hemisphere heat increases the risk of heat stress, prompting advice to walk dogs early, avoid hot surfaces and ensure plentiful shade and fresh water.
- South African reporting points to fireworks anxiety, stray spikes and braai hazards such as skewers, fatty scraps and hot coals, with guidance to secure pets and verify microchip details.