To avoid heartache this season, consider your furry friends and the many dangers around that could land you in the veterinary hospital.

1. Cats love to climb christmas trees, and will often eat ornaments, particularly tinsel. Ensure your christmas lights are turned off when you are not around to supervise your pets.

2. Poinsettias are toxic when consumed. You will also need to be careful with holly and misteltoe.

3. Chocolate and grapes (including raisons and currents) are poisonous in large amounts.

4. High fat and rich foods such as leftover ham can trigger upset stomachs in our pets, and could lead to vomiting, diarrhoea and ultimately pancreatitis.

5. BBQs are times when many pets are fed cooked bones, which are dangerous. Please let your friends know that your dog is fed well enough without their leftovers!

6. Many pets are extremely frightened by fireworks and storms, please contact your veterinarian to discuss medications if this is the case. Please also see our handout on fireworks phobias.

© Eloise Cotton, Livingstone Road Animal Health Centre